Malaysian Paper www.thesun.my RM1.00 PER COPY RM1 TUESDAY JAN 30, 2024 SCAN ME No. 8447 PP 2644/12/2012 (031195) 83% M’sian women, 63% men suffer from gastritis Report on — page 5 Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, who ends his reign as the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong today, wants Malaysians to remain united and work together to develop country. Condition often caused by H.pylori bacteria infection, smoking, excessive alcohol intake, ingestion of certain painkillers such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as well as stress: Expert Daim charged with failure to declare assets Ex-finance minister Tun Daim Zainuddin pleads not guilty to failing to declare assets to MACC, involving several luxury vehicles, companies and properties in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Pahang, Negeri Sembilan, Perak and Kedah. Report on — page 4 - Report on page 2 Robots, drones used in flood mitigation study Skudai rep collaborates with utility services firm to understand and address root causes of flooding at identified hotspots. Report on — page 3 King of our hearts ur hearts Al-Sultan Abdullah and the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah leaving Istana Negara after a special interview session. – BERNAMAPIC
TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 2 Al-Sultan Abdullah calls for strengthening of royal institution KUALA LUMPUR: As the guardian of the country’s democracy since 1957, the institution of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as the pillar of the nation’s peace and the pulse of unity needs to be maintained and continue to be reinforced, said Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah. The King emphasised the significance of fortifying the institution to safeguard the people and the country’s administration in order to fulfil the responsibilities and utilise the powers as enshrined in the Federal Constitution. Al-Sultan Abdullah said the institution serves not only as a symbol of unity in a diverse society but also as a platform of hope for the people to address the challenges confronting the nation. “I believe this institution holds great importance for our nation which is characterised by its multi-racial, multi-religious and diverse ethnic makeup. It is crucial to maintain and uphold this institution for the benefit of the country and the well-being of future generations. “If possible, efforts should be directed towards further strengthening it, not by augmenting individual powers. This emphasis is not about any specific individual, including myself, but rather about the institution itself. “The Agong serves a five-year term, and upon completion, returns to the state,” said the King in an interview with editors and senior journalists of mainstream media at Istana Negara recently in conjunction with the end of his reign. – Bernama Let me be king of your hearts, says outgoing Ruler KUALA LUMPUR: “I may not be the King of Malaysia after January, but if I can be, it’s to be the King of all your hearts.” That is the wish of Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah, who will end his reign as the country’s 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong today. Although he will no longer be the reigning King of Malaysia and will be returning to his home state Pahang as its Sultan, Al-Sultan Abdullah wants the people to remain united and work together to develop Malaysia, Bernama reported. “I hope the people will continue to give their full cooperation to advance and enhance our country’s economy, unite our people across all communities, all levels, and be grateful, continue to be grateful. “I would also like to thank the media (for your cooperation) throughout my time at Istana Negara. I apologise if there were any shortcomings, and I am truly grateful,” the outgoing King said in a special interview with editors and senior journalists of mainstream media at Istana Negara recently. The interview, conducted in a relaxed manner in the presence of the Raja Permaisuri Agong Tunku Azizah Aminah Maimunah Iskandariah, lasted almost two hours. The five-year reign of Al-Sultan Abdullah witnessed a colourful epoch marked by various events, including the Covid-19 pandemic and the change of four prime ministers with different Cabinets, unprecedented in Malaysian history. Despite those numerous challenges, the King was seen to have remained calm, resolving problems delicately with wisdom and much finesse. Sharing his secret of maintaining composure under intense pressure, as well as sorrow over the demise of his father Paduka Ayahanda Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Al-Musta’in Billah on May 22, 2019, Al-Sultan Abdullah said great leaders at any level must have patience in handling problems, must always engage in self-reflection and make swift decisions. “Alhamdulillah, I have been taught to be patient. We perform prayers and recite a lot of zikr. I’m not saying I’m exceptionally devout, but the practices we’ve maintained over the years bring peace. In truth, if we stick to our practices, we leave everything to Allah. Insya-Allah, hidayah (guidance from Allah) will find its way to us,” the King said. Chance to bid Agong farewell KUALA LUMPUR: The public will have a chance to bid farewell to the King at the send-off ceremony for the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong today. Kuala Lumpur police chief Datuk Allaudeen Abdul Majid said the event would be held along Jalan Parlimen up to the Datuk Onn Roundabout. He said the public could park their vehicles at the Perdana Botanical Garden, Padang Merbok, Dataran Merdeka and the multi-storey parking lot at Bukit Aman. “Jalan Parlimen up to Datuk Onn Roundabout will be completely closed as early as 6am for the movement of the farewell team consisting of 3,650 personnel from various ministries,” he told a media conference at the Kuala Lumpur Police Contingent headquarters yesterday. Allaudeen said seven roads in the federal capital would be fully closed and 13 roads would be closed in stages today for Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah’s farewell event. He also said five roads in the capital would be temporarily closed tomorrow in conjunction with the installation ceremony of the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, which will be held at Istana Negara. He added that the roads are Jalan Sultan Abdul Halim, Jalan Kuching, Jalan Tun Razak, Jalan Damansara and Jalan Travers. – Bernama Absurd to suspend funding to UN agency: Ex-MP KUALA LUMPUR: Former Klang DAP MP Charles Santiago said yesterday that “it is beyond preposterous to punish millions of Palestinians who are already living in a catastrophic condition even before investigations began”. Charles was referring to the US, United Kingdom, Italy, Australia, Canada, Finland and the Netherlands that are either reviewing or pulling back funding to the UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) based on allegations that some of its staff were involved in the Oct 7 attacks by Hamas, although the probe into the matter has not been concluded. Meanwhile, UN secretary-general Antonio Guterres called for the donor states not to suspend funding for the agency and that the UN is taking swift action to ascertain the veracity of Israel’s allegations. As the co-chair of the Asean Parliamentarians for Human Rights, Charles said pulling back funds to UNRWA is also o‘Move by several donor nations also goes against recent International Court of Justice ruling’ █ BYJOSHUA PURUSHOTMAN [email protected] against a recent International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruling. The ICJ ruling on Jan 26 ordered six provisional measures, including for Israel to refrain from acts under the Genocide Convention, prevent and punish direct and public incitement to genocide, and take immediate and effective measures to ensure the provision of humanitarian assistance to civilians in Gaza. The court also ordered Israel to preserve evidence of genocide and to submit a report to it within one month of all measures taken in line with its order. Charles said pulling back funds to UNRWA goes against the ICJ ruling, which ordered effective humanitarian aid to Gaza. “These states must be warned that withdrawing funding to UNRWA is tantamount to being complicit in genocide and their acts are punishable under Article 3 (e) of the Genocide Convention. “They are also ‘deliberately’ inflicting on the group conditions of life calculated to bring about their physical destruction in whole or in part.” Charles said the action of the seven states would result in starvation and even more deaths of Palestinians, again pointing to complicity in genocide. He said ironically even states that called for a humanitarian ceasefire, such as Finland, seem to have jumped on the bandwagon. “I vividly remember Israel building what was called the ‘Wall of Apartheid’ in 2002 and justifying it as a necessary security barrier, while the Palestinians said it was an element of segregation.” He said the ICJ ruled in 2003 that the barrier violated international law and should be torn down. “But just like today, there was no consensus among foreign governments to throw their support behind the non-binding ruling, resulting in Palestinian towns becoming isolated from communities and families.” He added that the actions of the supporting states also allowed Israel to further its annexation policy. Charles said it is imminent that governments and nation-states come together not just to condemn the decision to cut off funds to UNRWA but also to ensure that Israel complies with the ICJ ruling. “If we fail to do so now, it will result in further death and destruction in Gaza.” Initiative to address menstruation stigma KUCHING: The Women, Family and Community Development Ministry has collaborated with Kotex Malaysia to address the stigma attached to menstruation, and empower adolescent girls through the Kasih Remaja: Sihat dan Selamat programme and Kotex #SheCan project. Its minister Datuk Seri Nancy Shukri said the three-year initiative aims to reach 600,000 girls, aged between 13 and 17, with comprehensive menstrual hygiene and reproductive health education to break down taboos and foster well-being. “This is not just a matter of hygiene, but of their dignity, confidence and full potential. We also take initiatives to provide male students with knowledge and awareness about menstruation and reproductive health issues. “This is an important step in forming a more empathetic and understanding generation,” she said when launching the programme yesterday. She said based on the report “Study on the Status of Menstruation Management among Female Secondary School Students”, a total of 9.9% of 130,000 female students nationwide have problems obtaining menstrual management products. – Bernama Nancy with Kimberly Clark Malaysia managing director Lim Yu Chien and National Population and Family Development Board chairman Datuk Seri Rohani Karim at the launch of the programme in Kuching yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC
TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 3 Flood mitigation programme initiated for Skudai area oState rep working with specialist firm to identify causes and formulate measures to safeguard community PETALING JAYA: In a proactive response to the ongoing floods in Skudai, Johor, its state assemblywoman Marina Ibrahim has collaborated with AL Pine Utility Services Sdn Bhd to mitigate the problem through cutting-edge research, and using water robots and drones to collect precise data on flood-prone areas. “Collaborating with the company effectively helps us to mitigate flood incidents. With this ongoing collaboration that started in December, we aim to thoroughly understand and address the root causes of flooding in identified hotspots. “Beyond mere donations, the company has contributed highpressure water guns and essential supplies to assist in flood relief efforts,” she said. Marina also highlighted a commitment to collecting data related to flood incidents “as this will help us to formulate more effective flood management solutions”. She expressed concern for the residents and authorities grappling with the annual floods, that are attributed to the northeast monsoon bringing heavy rain from November to March. “The increased number of flood evacuees serves as a poignant reminder of the vulnerability of the area to seasonal weather patterns and underscores the need for proactive measures to safeguard the community against future incidents. “Areas in front of Skudai Parade were severely affected due to clogged drains, that were filled with sediment and debris. Addressing flooding issues in Kampung Laut, Kampung Poh Chee Leng, Kampung SK and areas surrounding Skudai Parade is On having a more efficient approach to addressing floods, Marina said monitoring contractors is essential to addressing its root causes and ensuring the timely and effective implementation of mitigation measures. She said the floods serve as a wake-up call for the authorities to advocate for proactive measures in the face of seasonal challenges. In recognising the interconnected nature of drainage systems, she warned that incorrect water diversion could worsen flooding issues, and emphasised the need for a comprehensive approach to flood management. “To address the funding challenges faced by flood control projects, the city council made requests to the Department of Irrigation and Drainage, which allocated resources for specific requests, such as sandbags at Jalan Zapin 3, removal of garbage and repairs to damaged water level alarms,” she said. While acknowledging the progress that has been made to mitigate the floods, Marina emphasised that more needs to be done to overcome the flooding problem in Skudai. Highlighting an inclusive decisionmaking process, she stressed the importance of considering opinions and requests from residents. “Engaging with stakeholders ensures that proposed solutions are not only reasonable and feasible but aligned with the community’s needs.” She said in the collaboration with AL Pine Utility, the focus was on sustainable, data-driven solutions, adding that she is committed to the continuous improvement of flood mitigation projects and community welfare. M’sian gaming firm receives world-class recognition KUALA LUMPUR: The World Lottery Association (WLA) has granted STM Lottery Sdn Bhd Level 3 recognition in the Responsible Gaming Framework (RGF), on the recommendation of its Independent Assessment Panel. STM Lottery general manager (Administration and Logistics) Tung Kai Shek said the recognition underscores its unwavering commitment to promoting responsible gaming practices and ensuring the highest standards of player protection. “The WLA RGF is a comprehensive set of guidelines designed to assess and enhance the responsible gaming initiatives of lottery organisations worldwide. “To achieve Level 3 accreditation, we enhanced our efforts to promote responsible gaming. For instance, we launched a series of player education and awareness campaigns based on the seven responsible gaming principles developed by WLA. We also incorporated measures for our customers to test, detect and address signs of problem gaming.“ Tung said STM Lottery actively trains its employees to be equipped with responsible gaming knowledge to offer assistance to its customers who may need help in addressing problems with gaming issues. The company also collaborates with industry regulators, community organisations and other stakeholders to promote responsible gaming on a broader scale. WLA RGF Independent Assessment Panel chairperson Anne Pattberg said: “STM Lottery provided a concise, well-organised and structured application. All elements are addressed in a pertinent and comprehensive way.” Tung said the company is proud to stand alongside other industry leaders in achieving Level 3 recognition, and that the accomplishment reflects its ongoing efforts to prioritise its players’ well-being and maintain the highest standards of integrity in its operations. “We understand the importance of promoting responsible gaming as an integral part of our corporate social responsibility. We believe that by adhering to the RGF, we will contribute to the overall sustainability and credibility of the industry. “We thank WLA for their rigorous evaluation and acknowledgement of our commitment to responsible gaming as we strive to create a safe and fun gaming experience for all.“ STM Lottery is the largest Number Forecast Operator that offers four Sports Toto digit games, a Jackpot-type game and three Lotto games in Malaysia. For more information about STM Lottery’s responsible gaming initiatives, please visit www.sportstoto.com.my and its Instagram profile at www.instagram.com/toto4green. Penang water supply disruption postponed GEORGE TOWN: The Penang Water Supply Corporation announced that the scheduled water supply disruption that was to begin yesterday for diversion of a pipeline, has been postponed to 11.30pm today. It said the matter was decided after taking into account requests of consumers in the affected areas. “We plan to provide at least 24 hours so that all 120,000 (affected) consumers have sufficient time to store enough water before implementing the scheduled water disruption.” The corporation previously said the disruption involved 120,000 accounts in Penang’s Southwest district, adding that the disruption was due to a large leak in a 1,350mm pipeline at the bottom of Sungai Perai. It explained that although works have been done since last Friday, the pipe was still leaking and is at risk of leaking again, necessitating diversion works are carried out to replace it. As of 6.30pm on Sunday, water supply had resumed to a total of 109,000 of the 120,000 affected consumers, Bernama reported. The leaking pipe at the bottom of Sungai Perai was the third such incident after another two in December last year and on Jan 12. FESTIVE SHOT ... Tourists visiting the Thean Hou Temple in Kuala Lumpur taking a photo among elaborate decorations put up in conjunction with Chinese New Year next month. – AMIRUL SYAFIQ/THESUN █ BYSIVANISVARRY MORHAN [email protected] █ BYJOSHUA PURUSHOTMAN [email protected] Symposium findings to be used for congress PUTRAJAYA: The results of an engagement session and the Bumiputera Agenda Steering Unit Aspiration Symposium held yesterday need to be used to prepare for the organisation of the Bumiputera Economic Congress 2024, said Economy Minister Rafizi Ramli. He said it could be used to draw up a short and long-term plan for the fiveday congress, starting Feb 29. “I was informed that the symposium is the first organised by steering unit and will be held annually. “I think it is a good step and should be continued because it is a very good space to discuss the studies that have been carried out and obtain the necessary resolutions for the future,” he said during the launch of the symposium yesterday. His speech was read by Economy Ministry secretary-general Datuk Nor Azmie Diron. – Bernama Labu rep appointed Bersatu chief SEREMBAN: Labu assemblyman Mohamad Hanifah Abu Baker has been appointed Negeri Sembilan Bersatu chief and Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman with immediate effect. He takes over from Datuk Seri Ahmad Faizal Azumu. Ahmad Faizal, who is Bersatu deputy president, said the decision on the appointment was made at a meeting of the Bersatu Supreme Leadership Council in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday. “I believe the Bersatu divisions will cooperate well with Mohamad Hanifah in strengthening the party. Bersatu and PN must play a role as an authoritative opposition,“ he said. – Bernama particularly challenging.” Marina said as of noon on Jan 25, the National Disaster Management Agency revealed that the number of flood evacuees had surged to 3,937, which was an increase from the 2,912 recorded just 12 hours earlier. She said floods occur every monsoon season in many states, adding that the authorities cannot keep using the excuse that it is because of climate change. “The flooding also reminds us of the need for a strong system to oversee and improve ongoing drainage and flood control projects.”
TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 4 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON Malaysian Paper INSTAGRAM Fire Dept to monitor hotspots during dry season PUTRAJAYA: The Fire and Rescue Department will focus on more than 400 hotspots across the country during the dry season, that is expected to start next month. Its director-general Datuk Nor Hisham Mohamad said the focus would be on peatland areas, illegal waste disposal sites and landfills owned and operated by local authorities. “The most worrying are peatland fires, especially in Selangor, Pahang, Johor, Sabah and Sarawak, so we will focus on hotspot locations which have been identified,” he said at a press conference after attending the annual parade at the department headquarters yesterday. He said the dry weather this year is expected to be worse than the previous three years, and urged the public to alert the department immediately if they have any information on irresponsible parties starting fires. “We monitor it as well but the most important and effective detection is the (public), to provide information on the location and condition of the fire to enable us to act swiftly and better,” he said. In his first message after leading the department since Jan 9, Nor Hisham said the department is targeting 300 community fire brigades and seven new volunteer fire brigades to be established this year. Apart from that, the department will continue to adopt digitalisation more aggressively with the implementation of two high-impact projects this year involving the modernisation of the Command, Control Communications, Computers and Intelligence control centres and the ePREMIS integrated system. He added that the implementation of the ePREMIS system, which integrates all the core service functions in the Fire Safety Division, facilitates access to services that include applications for Fire Safety Installation Certificates and Fire Safety Certificates by eliminating the bureaucracy of the face-to-face process that exists in the delivery of existing services. – Bernama RM13m for six S’gor education initiatives SHAH ALAM: The Selangor government has allocated almost RM13 million to ensure the success of six education initiatives, including the Selangor People’s Tutoring Programme (PTRS) this year. Deputy State Secretary (Management) Mohamad Zahri Samingon said the allocation was part of the state government’s efforts to empower education programmes, apart from meeting future requirements. “For this year, we have allocated RM10 million for the programme, of which RM7 million was donated by Menteri Besar Selangor Incorporated, followed by RM1 million each for the repair of school infrastructure and free internet service. “Apart from that, the state government also provided RM500,000 to be distributed to parents and teachers’ associations and RM150,000 for the purchase of laptops and iPads to be distributed to selected schools. “This year, the contribution of the National Education Savings Scheme will continue with an allocation of RM200,000, specifically for asnaf students,” he said after officiating at the state-level Tekad Pendidikan #KitaSelangor: STEM Exploration Carnival at the Shah Alam Convention Centre yesterday. – Bernama Gastritis cases prolific, yet preventable PETALING JAYA: Some 83% of women and 63% of men in the country experience gastritis, causing concern among medical professionals about its prevalence, although it is a preventable ailment. Consultant general and colorectal surgeon Dr Mohd Zailani Mat Hassan said gastritis typically develops in women between the ages of 45 and 64, while men tend to experience it around the age of 64. But it can still occur at any age, including in children as young as four. “Those with certain medical conditions like diabetes and hypertension are also more likely to get gastritis,” he said, adding that in most cases, gastritis is often caused by an infection of the stomach lining by the Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacteria, which can lead to various digestive problems. “Gastritis can also be caused by smoking, excessive alcohol intake or ingestion of certain painkillers such as nonsteroidal antioHealthy diet, consistent meal timing and lifestyle changes could avert painful affects of ailment: Experts █ BYQIRANA NABILLA MOHD RASHIDI [email protected] Protection from superstitions, black magic KANGAR: A strong belief in Tawhid (belief in the oneness of Allah) plays a role as an antidote in the context of superstitions and black magic, said the Raja Muda of Perlis Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail. He said Tawhid not only strengthens individual faith but also protects Muslims from the harmful effects of superstitions and black magic which lead to deviations from the true path of Islam. “Therefore, Muslims who truly understand and have faith will not be exposed to superstitions or resort to black magic as a solution to their problems. “With a strong belief in Tawhid, individuals are encouraged to place their trust and reliance solely in Allah, seek His help through sincere prayers and adhere to His guidance,” he said while closing the Perlis International Sunnah Convention 2024 at Dewan 2020 on Sunday. – Bernama More than 3,900 dengue fever cases recorded PUTRAJAYA: The number of dengue fever cases increased to 3,971 cases in the 3rd epidemiological week (ME03) from Jan 14 to Jan 20, compared with 3,525 cases reported the previous week. Health Director-General Datuk Dr Muhammad Radzi Abu Hassan said no deaths due to dengue fever complications were reported during the period. On the number of hotspots, he said it has dropped to 127 compared with 136 the previous week, with the highest number recorded in Selangor with 105 localities, followed by the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya with 13, Perak with three and Negeri Sembilan with two. For chikungunya surveillance, Muhammad Radzi said there was one case recorded in ME03, with the cumulative number of cases to date being two cases, while no chikungunya outbreak was reported. “For Zika surveillance, a total of 97 blood samples were screened and the results were all negative,” he said in a media statement yesterday. – Bernama PICTURE PERFECT ... A visitor taking a selfie at the JIOSPACE PJ Photography Awards Exhibition, that aims to promote the vibrant life and culture of Petaling Jaya. – ADIB RAWI YAHYA/THESUN inflammatory drugs. “Stress is also a potential cause of gastritis as it affects the digestive system by influencing stomach acid production and the integrity of the stomach lining.” Mohd Zailani said during times of stress, the brain releases specific hormones that reduce blood flow to the stomach and decrease the self-renewing cells of the stomach lining. Stress hormones may also disrupt the acid equilibrium within the stomach, compromising their self-defence mechanisms. He said while gastritis may not be inherently deadly, it can mimic other symptoms such as breathing difficulty and heart disease, potentially contributing to fatal outcomes. “In one case in 2022, an individual died after suffering complications arising from gastritis. His symptoms included stomach pain, nausea, occasional vomiting and at times, abdominal fullness or bloating, which caused breathing difficulty. “The combination of symptoms was a contributing factor to his demise.” Mohd Zailani also said other complications such as bleeding from gastric ulcers and perforation of the ulcer itself carry a significant risk of mortality, especially among older patients. “The mortality rate linked to bleeding gastric ulcers is approximately 5%, while perforated gastric ulcers have a mortality rate of around 4%.” He said individuals suffering from gastritis need to make significant changes in their lifestyle patterns and dietary habits to alleviate the symptoms. Dietitian Koh Nyat Syen said those prone to gastritis should prioritise consistent meal timings to minimise experiencing discomfort. “Our body produces stomach acid when we are hungry and it will often follow habitual meal timings. Skipping meals can worsen gastric pain as the stomach acid may further irritate an inflamed stomach lining.” She said those suffering from gastritis should avoid spicy food, excessive intake of caffeinated drinks and food containing citrus ingredients. “Some laboratory studies have shown that probiotics in fermented food, such as fermented kimchi, can help suppress the H. pylori bacterium and reduce inflammation. “However, some fermented foods can be quite acidic and worsen gastric pain in some chronic cases, so it is important to work closely with healthcare professionals to get the best treatment.” Koh added that society should play a role in spreading awareness through various channels and fostering healthy eating habits by promoting digestive health. “Social media platforms can provide helpful information on nutrition and health. Patients could also seek help from any dietitian, who can guide and help manage dietary concerns about related illnesses as well as provide helpful resources.”
TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 5 Ex-minister charged over failure to declare assets oDaim claims trial to charges involving 38 firms, seven luxury vehicles and 25 condominium units in six states KUALA LUMPUR: Former finance minister Tun Daim Zainuddin was charged in the Sessions Court yesterday with failure to declare his assets, which include several luxury vehicles, companies and properties in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Pahang, Negeri Sembilan, Perak and Kedah. Daim, 85, seated in a wheelchair placed next to the dock, pleaded not guilty to the charge before Judge Azura Alwi. “I understand the charge, plead not guilty and claim trial,” he said. He failed to declare his assets by deliberately giving a written statement under oath that did not comply with the terms of a notice, dated Nov 8, 2023, which required him to declare his assets, Bernama reported. The notice was sent to him by The list of companies also include Reliance E-Com Sdn Bhd, Admiral Marina Bhd, Golden Envoy (M) Sdn Bhd, Mela Lifestyle Sdn Bhd, AVI SPA Sdn Bhd, Avillion Hotel Group Sdn Bhd, RPB Capital Holdings Sdn Bhd, Genius Field Sdn Bhd, Festive Place Sdn Bhd, Avillion Suite Hotel (PD) Sdn Bhd, Taman Unik Sdn Bhd, Admiral Cove Development Sdn Bhd, Nesline Sdn Bhd, RPB Development Sdn Bhd, OS Resources Sdn Bhd, Avillion Hotel (KL) Sdn Bhd, Avillion Hotels International Sdn Bhd, Admiral Hill Hotel Sdn Bhd and Reliance Shipping & Travel Agencies (Perak) Sdn Bhd. The properties comprise 25 condominium units, houses and hotels in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Pahang, Negeri Sembilan and Kedah. On Jan 23, Daim’s wife, Toh Puan Na’imah Abdul Khalid, 66, was charged in the same Sessions Court with failure to declare her properties, namely Menara Ilham and several properties in Kuala Lumpur and Penang. MACC said the probe into Daim’s case was based on information obtained from the Pandora Papers, which disclosed records of wealthy and influential individuals hiding their wealth through offshore services or companies outside of their countries. Court sets aside gag order on local movie producer KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court had set aside a gag order yesterday imposed on Mentega Terbang film producer Tan Meng Kheng, prohibiting him from making any statement or comment regarding his ongoing case. Judge Datuk Muhammad Jamil Hussin said the prosecution, as the respondent, had failed to disclose that there was a real and substantial risk to the fairness of the trial. “The proceedings before the Magistrate’s Court did not disclose any obvious or imminent threat to the fairness of the trial. There is no material before the court to show that there is a real and substantial risk to the fairness of the trial. Therefore, the gag order issued by the magistrate was not proper and the gag order is hereby set aside,” said Muhammad Jamil. DPP Nor Azizah Aling and Nadia Mohd Izhar represented the respondent while lawyer N. Surendran acted for Tan as the applicant. Tan filed the application for review on Jan 18 and sought to challenge the gag order issued by the Magistrate’s Court on grounds that the ban is illegal and restricts freedom of speech. On Jan 17, film director Mohd Khairianwar, 32, and Tan, 36, were charged in two separate Magistrate’s Courts with hurting religious sensitivities of others through the film last year. They were charged with intentionally hurting religious sensitivities of others by uttering words and placing objects within the hearing and sight of people at a premises in Jalan Semarak Api on Feb 26, 2023. Mohd Khairianwar and Tan were charged under Section 298 of the Penal Code and were allowed bail RM6,000 and RM6,500 respectively, in one surety each. They were required to report to the nearest police station until the completion of the trial. The magistrate also allowed the prosecution’s request for a gag order, on Mohd Khairianwar and Tan. The Home Ministry ban on the movie follows the Government Gazette P.U (A) 2662 Film Censorship Act 2002, the Film Censorship (Prohibition) Order 2023, dated Aug 21, 2023. The film, broadcast on a video streaming platform, faced public backlash and anger due to purportedly depicting scenes involving conflicting religious beliefs and elements. – Bernama Appeal against DPM acquittal pending PUTRAJAYA: The Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC) has yet to decide on Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s representation for the prosecution to drop its appeal against his acquittal of 40 charges of corruption, in connection with a foreign visa system contract. DPP Abdul Malik Ayob informed the matter to the Court of Appeal, chaired by Justice Datuk Hadhariah Syed Ismail, during the case management yesterday. Hadhariah then maintained March 18, which had been set earlier, for hearing the prosecution’s appeal. Ahmad Zahid submitted the representation to the AGC in January last year. The Shah Alam High Court on Sept 23 2022, acquitted and discharged Ahmad Zahid of all the charges after ruling that the prosecution had not made out a prima facie case against him. The prosecution then filed its appeal to the Court of Appeal. The Umno president had pleaded not guilty to 33 counts of receiving bribes, amounting to S$13.56 million, from Ultra Kirana Sdn Bhd to extend the contract of the company as the operator of a one-stop centre service in China and the foreign visa system, as well as to maintain its contract with the Home Ministry to supply the foreign visa integrated system. Ahmad Zahid was also charged for allegedly obtaining cash of S$1,150,000, RM3 million, 15,000 Swiss francs and US$15,000 from the same company, which had connections to his official functions. – Bernama Daim surrounded by media crew after proceedings at the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex yesterday. – BERNAMAPIC Diesel smuggling syndicate busted ALOR SETAR: The Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry had managed to bust a diesel smuggling syndicate after detaining a lorry in Sungai Petani on Sunday. The ministry’s state director Affendi Rajini Kanth said enforcement officers had observed the smugglers buying diesel repeatedly at several petrol stations around Sungai Petani during their operation. He said they discovered the smugglers purchased RM200 worth of diesel at the first station, RM150 at the second and third station before they were stopped. “Checks revealed two 1,000-litre capacity tanks connected to two pumps and fuel hoses. The pumps were installed to siphon out fuel from the original tank into the additional tanks and the total amount of fuel confiscated was 232 litres, worth RM500,” he said, adding that the lorry, pumps, hoses and tanks, worth an estimated RM16,500, were also confiscated. “The male driver, in his 40s, was arrested and remanded for investigation under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.” – Bernama Police seek couple in ‘summons settling’ case IPOH: Police are looking for a British couple to help in the investigation into a case of a traffic policeman allegedly issuing a summons and offering to settle it on the spot. State police chief Datuk Seri Mohd Yusri Hassan Basri said it was understood the couple are currently in a neighbouring country. He said police were also identifying the traffic policeman involved, as well as the location, time and date of the incident, adding that the case was being investigated by the Bukit Aman police headquarters. The video, which had circulated on social media, showed the policeman offering the couple a chance to pay a specific amount to settle their summons on the spot. – Bernama a commissioner from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) on Nov 14, 2023, and the offence was allegedly committed at the MACC Headquarters in Putrajaya on Dec 13, 2023. The charge was framed under Section 36 (2) of the MACC Act 2009, which provides a maximum five years’ jail and a fine of up to RM100,000. The assets comprise Amanah Saham Nasional Berhad and Amanah Saham Nasional bank accounts, and seven luxury vehicles, including one Rolls Royce Royce 2 Axle Rigid Body, three Mercedes Benz, one Jaguar XJS HE, one Austin Morris and Ford Prefect. The assets also involve 38 companies, namely Ibu Kota Developments Sdn Bhd, Maya Seni Holdings Sdn Bhd, Menara Ampang Sdn Bhd, Dream Cruiser Sdn Bhd, Landbelt Corporation Sdn Bhd, Kenari Teliti Sdn Bhd, Fnq Advanced Materials Sdn Bhd, Kota Tandop Development Sdn Bhd, Alun-Alun Resort (M) Sdn Bhd, Dasar Seroja Sdn Bhd, Gigantic Promotions Sdn Bhd, Jupiter Alliance Sdn Bhd, Inayat Realty Sdn Bhd, Suasa Urus Sdn Bhd, Avillion Bhd, Meridian Haven Sdn Bhd, Avillion Vista Hotel Sdn Bhd, Vast Access Sdn Bhd and Fortune Valley Sdn Bhd.
TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 6 /theSunMedia FOLLOW ON YOUTUBE Malaysian Paper Or download app on the AppStore or Google Play ENJOY A SEAMLESS READING EXPERIENCE. Read our iPaper at https://www.thesun.my/ Move to centralise preschool education lauded performance,” he said. On Jan 22, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasised the need to review the preschool education system, ensuring it receives additional facilities to improve the learning process. He observed that Malaysia lags in providing facilities to preschools, including digitalisation. Rais said the government should look into restoring educational equity via the quality of educators at all levels, especially at the preschool and primary level, as a student’s success depends primarily on the teachers they meet on their academic voyage. “Teaching cannot be simply subcontracted to those who could not find placement elsewhere in the industry. “Among the top education nations, at least a Master’s degree is a common requirement for a teacher in a school at all levels to bring more science to pedagogical practice. However, more often, they hold dual PhDs, one in education and one in their respective teaching fields. “For example in Finland, becoming a teacher is more challenging than becoming a medical doctor. Germany, Japan, the Netherlands, Singapore and Switzerland are a few other countries where pedagogy is as serious a field as medicine or law,” he said. Meanwhile, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Centre of Education and Diversity Faculty of Education senior lecturer Dr Anuar Ahmad said preschool institutions in the country, managed by various government and private entities, are perceived as disorganised and need to be strengthened. “When we coordinate it, we will clearly see where the need is to help our children in rural areas, children from poor families and so on. Right now, we lack clarity, and this coordination will result in more efficient use of teacher manpower and allocations. “This would make the utilisation of funds more effective, not necessarily in savings, but more efficient and it would also standardise human resources.” Rais suggested the government consider several changes to restore education equity, such as subsidising early education. – MASRY CHE ANI/THE SUN oFocus should be on reform of performance-based classification policies, say experts Increased cash aid to B40 brings relief KUALA LUMPUR: What is the value of RM100? For some, it does not mean much. Still, for those in the B40 group, RM100 is a lot, especially in making ends meet with the current high cost of living. Single mother Norfizah Abu Samah, 56, felt a huge relief with the government’s announcement on the increase to RM1,200 in the payment of the Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (Sara) cash aid for poor and hardcore poor households, with recipients to receive RM100 every month for a year. She said the cash aid not only helped her with the household expenses but also in looking after her 98-year-old mother. “I am very satisfied because with the money, I can buy rice, cooking oil, sugar, milk and biscuits, and if there is some left, I could buy laundry detergent,” said Norfizah, who needs between RM250 to RM300 a month for household expenses. The increase in the Sara payment, from RM600 previously, highlights the government’s commitment in dealing with the wealth gap and building an inclusive society. Universiti Malaya Faculty of Business and Economics senior lecturer Dr Roza Hazli Zakaria said the increase would boost the purchasing power of lowincome households and reduce social problems caused by poverty. “The additional income would be spent to buy necessities, which they may not be able to afford without this aid, and this indirectly increases the purchasing power of the people. “In the context of low-income households, the increase in the cost of living will put pressure on them, and this can also cause many social problems such as school dropouts, lack of nutritious food for children, domestic conflict and even the possibility of an increase in crime rate.” However, she is of the opinion that cash assistance is not a sustainable solution for the long term. “Improving the ability of the group to improve their standard of living without relying solely on cash assistance is very necessary,” she said. – Bernama KUALA LUMPUR: The government move to centralise all preschool education systems under the Education Ministry has been lauded by academicians, who believe the initiative would have a profound impact on the education landscape. Founder of think-tank Emir Research Dr Rais Hussin said the step must be part of broader and immediate reforms aimed at transforming the entire education ecosystem, in line with global best practices. He suggested the government consider several changes in policies to restore muchneeded education equity in the country, such as subsidising early education, as implemented in Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany and New Zealand. In highlighting the need for sweeping changes, Rais recommended re-evaluating policies on school selection and class tracking based on performance, Bernama reported. He said such practices contribute to socioeconomic disparities, urging a shift similar to education systems in countries such as Belgium, Japan, the Netherlands, Norway and Singapore. “Leading nations either eliminate or considerably postpone the selection process for different schools, classes or tracks within a school based on performance and/or individual subjects. “With abundant empirical evidence, it is evident that these segregation practices disadvantage students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, contributing to the perpetuation and intensification of regional, social and gender inequality. “Conversely, deferring or eliminating such segregation has been found to at the very least, not negatively impact overall
TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 7 Myanmar senior official attends Asean meet LUANG PRABANG: A senior Myanmar official met the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) foreign ministers in Laos yesterday, the junta-ruled country’s first representative to attend a high-level meeting of the regional bloc in more than two years. The Myanmar military seized power in a coup in February 2021, and in October that year Asean barred junta leaders from its summits and ministerial meetings, inviting the country to send “non-political” representatives instead. Up to now Myanmar has refused, but a senior foreign ministry bureaucrat Marlar Than Htike is attending a foreign ministers’ “retreat” in Luang Prabang, Laos. The meeting comes just three days before the three-year anniversary of the coup, with the junta facing their most serious threat to power yet, as a coalition of armed ethnic groups make significant gains in the north. Arriving at the opening ceremony, Marlar Than Htike refused to answer reporters’ questions about Myanmar’s presence at the meeting. Earlier, she was seen talking with Thai Foreign Minister Parnpree Bahiddha-Nukara and East Timor counterpart Bendito dos Santos Freitas. Laos has the chair of Asean for the first time since 2016, with all eyes on whether the small nation can move the needle on the long-running issue of Myanmar. Asean’s diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis have been repeatedly stymied, with little progress made since 2021 when the bloc agreed on a five-point peace plan. Although last year’s chair Indonesia hailed “positive” talks with the main sides in November, the junta was represented by “interlocutors”, according to a statement at the time. However, friction between Asean members escalated over the former Thai government’s decision last year to meet junta foreign minister Than Shwe. The kingdom shares a long border with Myanmar. Earlier this month junta leader Min Aung Hlaing met with the Laotian special envoy of Asean, Alounkeo Kittikhoun, in the capital Naypyidaw. Myanmar state media reported at the time that the two discussed “efforts of the government to ensure peace and stability”. – AFP Youths prioritise green issues in polls, says foundation JAKARTA: As the 2024 Indonesia elections approach, young voters, comprising Millennials and Gen Z, prioritise environmental conservation when selecting candidates, said WWF Indonesia Foundation. The foundation CEO Aditya Bayunanda disclosed that 97% of young voters would consider supporting candidates committed to environmental preservation. “Based on survey in early Dec 2023, 75% claimed awareness of environmental aspects in candidates’ visions, while 36% admitted a lack of understanding,” he said. The survey, encompassing 1,365 respondents aged between 17 and 30, mirrors the youth’s perspective, with 54% of the 204 million voters in the Feb 14 election being Millennials and Gen Zs. Teaming up with research firm Populix, the survey showed that 85% are impacted by environmental issues, including climate change, such as floods, high temperatures, and droughts. About 72% recognised the effects of waste and pollution, experiencing problems like respiratory issues due to air quality decline (68%), a decrease in water quality (53%), and 43% detecting damage to forest or marine ecosystems, Aditya added. Indonesia, the world’s third-largest democracy, is gearing up for its general election where voters will decide the president, vice-president, members of People’s Consultative Assembly – comprising the House of Representatives and the Regional Representative Council – and members of local legislative bodies. In the presidential race, Anies Baswedan is partnering with vice-president candidate Muhaimin Iskandar, Prabowo Subianto is running with Gibran Rakabuming Raka, and Ganjar Pranowo, the ruling party’s presidential candidate, teams up with Mahfud MD. During last week’s vice-presidential debate, Muhaimin emphasised fair environmental ethics, Gibran highlighted the duty to maintain natural balance, and Mahfud focused on natural resource management. – Bernama Manila aims to strengthen marine ties with Vietnam MANILA: Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr yesterday said talks on maritime cooperation between his country and Vietnam would be one of the cornerstones forged in a strategic partnership with its Southeast Asian neighbour. oMarcos expects to meet Hanoi top officials during two-day visit to promote peace, stability in region BURST OF COLOUR ... Red lanterns being produced for the upcoming Lunar New Year celebrations in Huai’an in China’s eastern Jiangsu province. – AFPPIC B R I E F SKIM HAILS TEST LAUNCH OF SUBMARINE MISSILES SEOUL: North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has hailed the test launch of a new strategic cruise missile from a submarine as a key moment in building the nation’s naval power, state media said yesterday. Pyongyang has accelerated weapons testing in the new year, including tests of what it called an “underwater nuclear weapon system” and a solid-fuelled hypersonic ballistic missile. Kim expressed “great satisfaction” over Sunday’s test, state-run news agency KCNA said, “which is of strategic significance in carrying out the plan for modernising the army which aims at building a powerful naval force”. The North Korean leader separately inspected “the building of a nuclear submarine” and discussed issues related to the construction of other new warships, the report added without giving details. – AFP NANOSAT MISSION A SUCCESS, SAYS S. KOREA SEOUL: South Korean space start-up, Nara Space Inc, said yesterday its nanosatellite, Observer-1A, has successfully conducted a mission for earth observation by capturing photos of major cities, including Busan and Dubai, reported the Yonhap news agency. Observer-1A, South Korea’s first commercial nanosatellite, was launched aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Vandenberg Space Force Base in California in November and successfully entered earth’s orbit. The microsatellite, 20cm in width and 40cm in height, was tasked to capture its first recording of earth to monitor activities, such as ship and car movements, as well as changes in forest areas. – Bernama-Yonhap “We hope to strengthen this aspect during my visit to promote peace and stability in our region,” Marcos said in a statement before leaving for Hanoi for a two-day state visit. Marcos is expected to meet Vietnam’s top officials and work on agreements on coastguard cooperation and rice supply. Vietnam is a major rice exporter and the Philippines is one of the world’s biggest importers of the grain. Marcos said he hopes his visit would bring their relations to greater heights and “usher in a new era of friendship and cooperation”, with talks on trade, investment, education and tourism, as well as “regional and multilateral issues of concern”. Vietnam and the Philippines have overlapping claims in the South China Sea, but have generally friendly relations compared to the heightened tensions between Manila and Beijing over disputed waters. Ties between the Philippines and China have deteriorated this past year, coinciding with a tougher stand by Manila and overtures by Marcos to forge stronger military relations with the United States. The South China Sea, a route for more than US$3 trillion (RM14.19 trillion) in annual ship-borne commerce traffic is claimed almost entirely by China via a U-shaped line policed by its vast coastguard fleet, which cuts into the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. In 2016, the Permanent Court of Arbitration in the Hague said China’s claims had no legal basis, a decision Beijing has rejected. – Reuters
TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 8 @thesundaily FOLLOW ON TWITTER Malaysian Paper Hong Kong to allow recognition of China court rulings HONG KONG: A new law, which will allow mainland Chinese courts to enforce their rulings in Hong Kong in commercial and civil cases, took effect yesterday in the finance hub. The reciprocal arrangement will allow for the two-way recognition of court judgments in Hong Kong and China for civil or commercial lawsuits, should the parties apply for it. The former British colony has a common law system distinct from mainland China and it is often cited as key to the city’s appeal to international investors. But observers have said the legal firewall between Hong Kong and China has gradually eroded as Beijing tightens its grip on the city after the enactment of a national security law in 2020 designed to quell dissent. The new measure would lead to “a higher degree of certainty and predictability” and “reduce the need for relitigation”, officials have said. Major exemptions to the new arrangement include judgments about insolvency. Officials have stressed that crossover recognition is optional and the decision is up to the parties to a lawsuit. “Mainland judgments will not automatically take effect in Hong Kong, and assets in Hong Kong will not be confiscated by the mainland directly after the arrangement has come into operation,“ a Department of Justice spokesman said last week. The new arrangement was the product of a 2019 agreement between Hong Kong’s Department of Justice and the Supreme People’s Court of China, officials said. Hong Kong has already passed laws to allow similar two-way recognition of judgments concerning matrimonial and some monetary disputes. There is also a separate pilot programme for reciprocal recognition of insolvency rulings since 2021. – AFP B R I E F SJAPAN MOON LANDER COMES BACK TO LIFE TOKYO: Japan’s Moon lander has come back to life, the space agency said yesterday, enabling the craft to proceed with its mission of investigating the lunar surface despite its rocky start. The surprise announcement was a boost to Japan’s space programme, nine days after the Smart Lander for Investigating Moon (Slim) touched down at a wonky angle that left its solar panels facing the wrong way. “Last evening we succeeded in establishing communication with Slim, and resumed operations,” Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency said on social media platform X, posting a grainy image of a lunar rock known as “toy poodle”. “We immediately started scientific observations and have successfully obtained first light for 10-band observation,“ it said, referring to the lander’s multiband spectroscopic camera. – AFP CNN PHILIPPINES TO CLOSE DUE TO FINANCIAL LOSSES MANILA: CNN Philippines will stop operations from Jan 31 due to “significant financial losses”, its owner announced yesterday, in the latest blow for the media industry in the Southeast Asian nation. The broadcaster began operating in the Philippines in 2015 as a franchise of CNN, delivering mainly English-language news on free-to-air, cable and pay television. Staff were told of the decision to shut down yesterday. “The decision follows financial losses sustained over the past years, despite rigorous efforts to adapt and innovate in a rapidly evolving media landscape,“ CNN Philippines-owner Nine Media Corp said. – AFP France wants EU to change law on environmental issues PARIS: France wants a decision this week to change European Union (EU) environmental regulations regarding agricultural surfaces which have to remain fallow under new biodiversity rules, in order to help the country’s farmers, its farming minister said yesterday. The French government is battling to try and contain nationwide protests from farmers, who are demanding better pay and living conditions. Belgian farmers also began a protest yesterday, with many farmers across Europe complaining that the EU is not doing enough to help them in the face of international competition and globalisation. “In the coming 48 hours, there will be certain measures we will put on the table,” French Farming Minister Fesneau told France 2 TV. oDecision will help quell protests from farmers demanding better pay and living conditions, says minister Fesneau said one area of contention which France would look to change in order to help the country’s farmers was an EU nature law passed last year. Last year, the European Parliament voted to pass a fiercely contested law to restore degraded natural ecosystems. The legislation will require countries to introduce measures restoring nature on a fifth of their land and sea by 2030. The aim is to reverse the decline of Europe’s natural habitats – 81% of which are classed as being in poor health. However, many farmers have complained this could impact their businesses. – Reuters Disposable vapes set to be banned in Britain LONDON: Disposable vapes are set to be banned in Britain as part of plans to tackle the rise in young people vaping and protect children’s health, reported German news agency dpa. British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak is set to announce the plan to implement the ban – using powers already in place under the Environmental Protection Act – which is expected to come into force at the end of 2024 or the start of 2025, during a visit to a school yesterday. It forms part of the British government’s response to its consultation on smoking and vaping, which was launched in October last year. New data shows the number of children vaping in the last three years has tripled, the government said, adding that use among younger children is also rising, with 9% of 11 to 15-year-olds now using vapes. Disposable vapes have been pushing the rise in youth vaping, with the proportion of 11 to 17-year-old vapers using disposables increasing almost ninefold in the last two years, it added. New powers will also be introduced to restrict flavours which are specifically marketed at children and ensure that manufacturers produce plainer packaging and change how vapes are displayed in shops, moving them out of children’s sight. New £100 (RM601) fines will also be brought in for shops in England and Wales, which sell vapes illegally to children. Trading standards officers will be given powers to act “on the spot” to tackle underage tobacco and vape sales. This builds on a maximum £2,500 fine that local authorities can already impose. Vaping alternatives, such as nicotine pouches, will also be banned for children. Sunak said: “As any parent or teacher knows, one of the most worrying trends at the moment is the rise in vaping among children, and so we must act before it becomes endemic. “The long-term impacts of vaping are unknown , so while vaping can be a useful tool to help smokers quit, marketing vapes to children is not acceptable.” – Bernama-dpa HISTORICAL RE-ENACTMENT ... A recreation of members of the King’s Army commemorating the death of King Charles I at the hands of the Parliament in 1649 in London. – AFPPIC
TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 9 First drone strike against US forces kills three, injures 34 oBiden says Iran-backed groups carried out attack in Jordan, while Tehran denies involvement WASHINGTON: Three US service members were killed and at least 34 wounded in a drone attack by Iranbacked militants on US troops in Jordan, said US President Joe Biden, the first deadly strike against US forces since the Israel-Hamas war erupted. The attack, which Iran said it was not involved in, marks a major escalation in tensions that have engulfed the Middle East, amid concerns Israel’s war against Hamas could spread into a wider conflict involving Iran’s proxies in Lebanon, Yemen and Iraq. “While we are still gathering the facts of this attack, we know it was carried out by radical Iran-backed militant groups operating in Syria and Iraq,” Biden said in a statement. At least 34 personnel were injured in the Sunday attack, according to a statement from US Central Command. Iran’s mission to the United Nations said in a statement yesterday that Tehran was not involved in the attack. “Iran had no connection and had nothing to do with the attack on the US base,” the mission said in a statement published by the state news agency Irna. It added: “There is a conflict between US forces and resistance groups in the region, which reciprocate retaliatory attacks.” The US military said the attack occurred at a base near the Syrian border. It did not name the base, but a person familiar with the matter identified it as Tower 22 in Jordan. Tower 22 holds a strategically important location in Jordan, at the most northeastern point where the country’s borders meet Syria and Iraq. Little is publicly known about the base. But it includes logistics support and there are 350 US Army and Air Force troops at the base. The conflict in Gaza began on Oct 7 when Hamas fighters stormed border defences to attack Israeli bases and towns, killing more than 1,200 people and seizing more than 200 hostages. Israel’s intense bombardment of Gaza since Oct 7 has killed nearly 25,000 Palestinians, says health authorities in the Hamas-run enclave, and left millions homeless. Missile attacks in Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen this month by Iran-backed militants has highlighted the increasing risk of a wider regional conflict pitting Iran and its allies against Israel and the US. While the US has maintained an official line that Washington is not at war in the region, it has been retaliating against the Iran-backed groups in Iraq and Syria and carrying out strikes against Yemen’s Houthi military capabilities. Yemen’s Iran-aligned Houthis have continued to attack shipping in the region, and yesterday said they had launched a rocket at US warship Lewis B. Puller as it sailed through the Gulf of Aden a day earlier. – Reuters Four linked to Israeli intelligence executed TEHRAN: Iran executed four men at dawn yesterday after they were convicted of collaborating with the country’s arch-foe Israel on a plan to sabotage an Iranian defense site, according to the judiciary. The four defendants, identified as Mohammad Faramarzi, Mohsen Mazloum, Wafa Azarbar, Pejman Fatehi, were arrested in July 2022 and accused of plotting to carry out out an operation against a Ministry of Defense centre in the central province of Isfahan, according to the judiciary’s Mizan Online website. “The death sentence of four members of a group affiliated with the Zionist spy organisation, who were arrested for plotting a bombing operation in Isfahan, was carried out this morning,“ Mizan Online reported. According to Iran, the men had been recruited by Mossad, Israel’s intelligence service, “about a year and a half before the operation”. They were sent to African countries for “training courses in the military centres” where Mossad officers were present, the judiciary added. The men were sentenced to death in September 2023. In August 2023, Iran claimed to have foiled a “very complex” Mossadinitiated project to “sabotage” its ballistic missile industry. A few months earlier, in February, Teheran accused Israel of being responsible for a drone attack on a military site in Isfahan. The two countries have been engaged in a shadow war for decades. – AFP Saudi CEO nabbed for alleged money laundering B R I E F S25,000 GAZA CHILDREN ORPHANED TEHRAN: Euro-Mediterranean Human Rights Monitor has painted a grim picture of harrowing conditions of children in Gaza, saying 25,000 Palestinian kids have become orphans as a result of Israel war on the besieged territory. The rights group, according to Islamic Republic News Agency quoting Palestine’s Sama news agency, said 25,000 children have lost one or both parents in Gaza since Oct 7 last year, the day Israel started its bombing and shelling campaign in the coastal Palestinian strip. Earlier, the Gaza Health Ministry announced that the number of martyrs of the Israeli military campaign has reached 26, 422 while 65,087 wounded since the beginning of the war. Apart from casualties, the relentless attacks on residential buildings, refugee camps and hospitals have inflicted miseries on the people of Gaza. – Bernama-Irna AUSTRIA SUSPENDS UNRWA PAYMENTS BERLIN: Austria is suspending payments to the United Nations’ Palestinian aid agency UNRWA pending a full investigation into accusations that its employees were involved in the Oct 7 Hamas attack on Israel, the Austrian foreign ministry said yesterday. “We call on UNRWA and the United Nations to conduct a comprehensive and complete investigation into the allegations,“ the ministry said. Austria joins Britain, Germany, the United States, Australia and Canada, among others, in pausing funding to the aid agency. – Reuters RIYADH: The head of a tourism and heritage project meant to help establish Saudi Arabia as a global arts hub has been arrested on suspicion of money laundering, authorities announced late Sunday. Amr bin Saleh Abdulrahman AlMadani, chief executive of the Royal Commission for AlUla in the northwestern Medina region, “was arrested for his involvement in crimes of abuse of authority and money laundering”, the official anti-corruption authority said in a statement. Both before and after he assumed his position, AlMadani was allegedly involved in illegally obtaining contracts for a separate company in which he has an ownership stake, the statement said, putting the value of the contracts at around 207 million Saudi riyals (RM260 million). “Legal procedures are currently being taken against the detainees for prosecution in a court of law, in line with the laws and regulations,“ the statement said. The website for the Royal Commission of AlUla yesterday did not refer to AlMadani and instead listed Abeer AlAkel as acting CEO. AlUla is home to the Hegra archaeological site, a Unesco World Heritage site famed for its ancient Nabataean tombs dotted amid sandstone mountains and wadis. – AFP BATTLEFIELD PLAYGROUND ... Palestinian children playing with dolls at a makeshift camp housing refugees in Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. – AFPPIC
TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 10 Education remains an important pillar of Malaysian society; it equips students with the skills needed to become productive and useful members of society. We invite you to showcase the best of education and the difference your institution has brought to the education landscape. Education matters so join us in 2024! Contact us now for special deals on digital, video and print advertising. Malaysian Paper 03-7784 6688 [email protected] Creativity boon for education I N today’s ever-evolving world, the education landscape is undergoing a profound transformation. Conventional learning paradigms, where knowledge intake is centred around textbooks, memorisation and standardised tests no longer suffice in preparing students for the challenges of the 21st century. This demands a fundamental shift to a more contemporary learning approach that prioritises foundational literacies, critical thinking and character development. Why is creativity often undervalued and neglected in our classrooms despite its vital role in stimulating these qualities that will help students thrive? As we step into 2024 and look towards further development on the Education Ministry’s 2027 School Curriculum Plan, schools and parents should also delve into the importance of integrating creativity into education and methods to nurture it. Shaping future-ready students With the 2027 School Curriculum Plan aiming to produce well-balanced students, creativity plays a vital role as a catalyst to strengthen character building, thinking skills and lifelong learning, offering a myriad of benefits that extend beyond the classroom. One advantage lies in the intrinsic motivation and engagement experience for students. When learning becomes a canvas for creative expression, students are drawn into the educational process, fostering a genuine enthusiasm to acquire knowledge. Motivation not only amplifies academic achievements but instils a lifelong passion for learning, empowering students to navigate complex situations. Moreover, the integration of creativity bridges the gap between traditional classroom learning and reallife applications. As students engage in creative exercises and projects, they gain a better understanding of how theoretical knowledge, such as numeracy, scientific and civic literacy translates into practical solutions for real-world challenges. An experiential learning approach also enhances the relevance of academic content when it is applied to everyday scenarios. At its core, creativity bolsters curiosity, creative thinking and problem-solving. As students grapple with open-ended tasks, creativity compels students to explore new ideas and perspectives in developing innovative solutions. This, in turn, shapes students into open-minded, adaptable and resourceful individuals, recognising that there may be different ways to approach and solve a problem. Elevating classroom learning experience Creativity needs to be implemented and assessed within the school curriculum, recognising them as “must-have skills” rather than “nice-tohave”. Teachers must embrace innovative learning methods and find creative ways to capture students’ attention. Supported by the Education Ministry, Faber-Castell introduced the Score A Creative Learning programme to equip teachers with practical applications of 10 creative learning techniques, which were cascaded to their students. The results were impressive. Students experienced a more meaningful learning journey, increased study effectiveness and improved grades. Arts as catalyst for learning Teaching young students about global issues, such as understanding the environment and climate change, can be challenging. Art provides a creative way to learn, incorporating visuals, emotions, stories and thinking skills. The Young Artist Award exemplifies this, helping students to not only learn through art but also in grasping environmental issues. In 2023, students nationwide in Malaysia achieved a milestone by breaking the Malaysia Book of Records with the highest number of submissions, making the 2023 Young Artist Award the largest young artist colouring contest. The interpretations of sustainabilitythemed artworks by these young minds were inspiring, showcasing their problem-solving and analytical thinking in addressing global challenges. Raja Ahmad Alauddin, a Young Artist Award finalist who discovered his love for art at the age of four, stood out among them. Aspiring to raise awareness through impactful artwork, Raja Ahmad is an inspiring young illustrator. Additionally, we should continue to support young Malaysians to consider art not only as an outlet for creativity but also as a potential future career goal. As an advocate for learning and creativity, Faber-Castell remains dedicated to collaborating closely with the Education Ministry to champion innovative learning initiatives such as the Score A programme and the Young Artist Award. The 2027 School Curriculum Plan marks a significant stride towards nurturing a generation with a growth mindset, competitiveness and resilience. We encourage schools and parents to embrace initiatives that prioritise creativity and essential skills for pupils’ success. This approach is beneficial not only for young Malaysians but also for the overall progress and well-being of the country and society. We cannot afford to underestimate the power of creativity in education. The writer is the managing director of Faber-Castell Malaysia. Comments: [email protected] “As students grapple with open-ended tasks, creativity compels students to explore new ideas and perspectives in developing innovative solutions. Creativity plays a vital role as a catalyst to strengthen character building, thinking skills and lifelong learning, offering a myriad of benefits that extend beyond the classroom. – REUTERSPIC COMMENT by Andrew Woon
11 TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 The fight I lost to maintain leadership I HAD mentioned that I was made a committee member of the Incorporated Society of Planters for the Kluang branch in my previous column, and it did not take long for members to propose my candidacy for the national position of vice-chairman. All seemed fine until a potential obstacle emerged in the form of Khoo Kay Tuan, hailing from an estate not far from Kuala Lumpur. Established in 1919, the Incorporated Society of Planters, also known as ISP, was founded by British planters. Its objective was to advocate for improved housing conditions in the days of oil lamps and water wells, and perhaps to secure jobs. The membership grew, and during the war, it also managed to raise funds to acquire an aircraft for the British efforts in Europe. After the war, the planters returned, and the ISP resumed the publication of its monthly Planter magazine, featuring technical papers and personal stories. On the back pages, it showed the changes of address, names of new members and those who had died, including casualties from the Emergency. It was a link for individuals residing in remote areas. The ISP also conducted examinations on agriculture, estate management, soil and botany as well as language assessments, including Tamil and Hakka. Many planters distinguished themselves by passing the examinations and earning the title of Associate of the Incorporated Society of Planters. Over the years, the society helped build the expertise for the industry. Then came the time for change, and at a meeting in the Kluang club in 1969, some senior expatriates suggested I be the branch secretary. The era for them was ending. The secretary J.S. Ballard was leaving for a new job in Papua New Guinea. It was a task reading through the files but soon my apprehension waned. Thereafter, I was made chairman of the branch. This meant attending quarterly meetings in Kuala Lumpur at a rented office on Jalan Yap Kwan Seng, giving me an opportunity to interact with planters from different states. With the confidence I had gained, I did not reject the nomination for the post of national vice-chairman, but I did not realise the challenges I would face for this role, which was a step towards the top post of chairman in the future. I met Khoo earlier at the Federation Military College, where we were students. At that time, he had earned the Commandant’s Prize for his exceptional leadership and sportsmanship. Seeing him again, it was evident that he had grown taller, yet remained as lean as before. I watched him arrive at the annual general meeting at the Commonwealth Club at Bukit Damansara, striding in with a group of followers. The election for the chairman proceeded smoothly, with Tan See Yeok, a seasoned planter affiliated with Kuala Lumpur-Kepong, being the sole nominee. He had our votes without any show of hands. When it was time to vote for the position of vicechairman, tension permeated the room. I knew that Khoo had put in significant effort, and many were on his side. It became evident during the show of hands that Khoo emerged as the winner. Upon returning to the office, I suggested using postal ballots starting from the following year to enable all members, especially those in more distant locations like Sabah, to participate in the voting process, given that my name had become more familiar in such places. In the following year (1973), when the envelopes came in, I had most of the votes. A few months later, I had the chance to visit Khoo one evening as I was returning from a meeting in Kuala Lumpur. I knocked on the door of his bungalow at Lothian Estate, near Seremban. Although we were not bosom friends, I listened as he talked incisively about the society’s mission and its future direction. He raised questions, such as whether we should function as a trade union similar to the recently established Association of West Malaysian Plantations Executives. Additionally, he wondered why we did not have our own building instead of relying on rented premises prone to floods. At the end of our conversation, I told him that my branch had nominated me to run for the chairman’s position in the upcoming year, seeking his support. In return, I pledged my support for him to secure the vice-chairman’s post. Although I was unsure about his commitment, Khoo kept to his word. He won the vote for vice-chairman, and I, in turn, assured him of my support when he decided to vie for the chairman position in the future. He also helped to raise money for a building by holding a fund-raising dinner at the Sungei Ujong Club in Seremban. The guest of honour was then Finance Minister Tun Tan Siew Sin. With the fundraiser, we were able to purchase a bungalow at Jalan U Thant in Ampang. As promised, I resigned as chairman. Khoo may have thought I was honouring my word, but there was another reason. My company chairman said my trips were taking my attention from work. This was after I had returned from opening the Sarawak branch in Miri. I was welcomed by the chairman, Jog Stewart, a Scottish planter in Commonwealth Development Corp, and his committee of senior planters and agronomists, who were developing bigger areas in the state. During my speech, I acknowledged the warm welcome and expressed enthusiasm about working together. The applause was gratifying. Upon my return, the chairman inquired about the trip and pressed on with his next question. “When is your chairmanship ending?” I told him it was my second year, and that it would end in December. “I suggest you call it a job well done, and refocus on running the daily operations. We need to raise the yield per hectare and get more income. The London office has changed the management accounting method and has asked us to revalue the estates. They will rate us on return on assets, not on equity. We will not look good unless we increase profits.” With a feeling of regret, I sent a note to the society that I was not standing for the next election. When I told Khoo , he did not say anything. He probably thought that I was honouring my word. I found no reason to disclose the other reason. The writer has extensive experience in the management of oil palm plantations. Comments: [email protected] E STATE MANAGERWRITE S BY MAHBOB ABDULLAH LETTERS [email protected] Base decisions on law, evidence and fairness SHOULD the Attorney-General (AG) explain the reason(s) for dropping charges in high-profile cases? This question should be answered in the context of the two concepts of the law and public good. The law does not require the AG to explain his reasons but is that in the interest of the public? The law refers to a set of rules and regulations that are enforced by the government to maintain order and protect citizens’ rights. On the other hand, the public good refers to the well-being of society as a whole. While the law is designed to protect individual rights, it may not always align with the public good. For example, a company may be legally allowed to pollute the environment, but this would not be for the public good as it would harm the environment and the health of the people living in the area. Similarly, a law that allows discrimination against a particular group of people would not be in the public good as it would violate the principles of equality and justice. It is important to strike a balance between the two to ensure that the rights of individuals are protected while also promoting the overall welfare of the community. Offering clear reasons for withdrawing charges promotes transparency in the legal system. It allows the public to understand the decision-making process and ensures that the AG’s office is held accountable for its actions. When charges are dropped without explanation, it can erode public trust in the justice system. Providing reasons helps maintain the confidence of citizens in the integrity of legal proceedings. Requiring explanations for charge withdrawals serves as a safeguard against potential abuse of power. It ensures that decisions are made based on legal merits rather than political or personal considerations. Publicly stated reasons can serve as legal precedents for similar cases in the future. They help establish a consistent framework for making such decisions and avoids arbitrary actions. Providing reasons ensures that all parties involved, including the “Publicly articulated reasons can stimulate constructive public discourse on legal matters, promoting a better understanding of the legal process and its implications. accused, victims, and the public, understand why charges were dropped. This will promote fairness and equality under the law. Knowing that withdrawals require justification can deter frivolous or unjustified charges in the first place. Prosecutors may think twice before initiating cases they cannot sufficiently justify. Reasons for withdrawing charges can help clarify the legal standards and criteria used by the AG’s office. This clarity can guide future legal proceedings and interpretations of the law. In cases where charges were initially filed in error, providing reasons will allow for acknowledgement of mistakes and corrective actions. This will help rectify any injustice caused to the accused. Explaining the rationale behind charge withdrawals can be an educational opportunity for the public, helping them understand the complexities and challenges of the legal system. Publicly articulated reasons can stimulate constructive public discourse on legal matters, promoting a better understanding of the legal process and its implications. In essence, providing reasons for withdrawing charges after they have been proffered is a fundamental aspect of a just and accountable legal system. This will ensure that decisions are made based on law, evidence and fairness, rather than arbitrary or undisclosed factors. Tan Sri Lee Lam Thye Kuala Lumpur Providing reasons for withdrawing charges after they have been proffered is a fundamental aspect of a just and accountable legal system. – REUTERSPIC
HEALTH HEALTH 12 TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 Between puffs GUM (periodontal) disease is an infection of the gums and, if left untreated, can damage the soft tissues and bone structure that support your teeth. In severe cases, it can make your teeth fall out. Plaque biofilm derived from saliva is the primary cause of periodontal disease. Plaque biofilm formation is a continuous process and it accumulates on the surfaces of teeth if oral hygiene is not performed satisfactorily to remove it. The oral cavity is home to more than 700 bacterial species. The bacteria from the oral cavity will contaminate plaque biofilm and if it stays on your teeth for too long, several layers of plaque biofilm and tartar, which is hardened plaque and termed calculus, will develop. The bacteria found within the plaque biofilm will discharge byproducts into the surrounding gum tissue, leading to the initiation and progression of gum disease. The rough surfaces of tartar can also act as a trap for the adherence of plaque biofilm, leading to further damage to the gum tissues. Smoking is classified as a contributing factor to the progression of periodontal disease. Epidemiological studies have provided evidence that tobacco smokers have poorer oral hygiene than non-smokers and also have increased quantities of dental tarter (calculus). Most of these differences can be attributed to less favourable tooth brushing habits, particularly evident in male smokers. However, smoking is also associated with a decreased flow of saliva, which may explain the increased tendency to form dental tartar. Smoking and gingivitis (inflammation of the soft outer layer of the tooth). Heavy smokers often present with a thickened, fibrotic appearance to their gum tissues. The rate of plaque accumulation is similar in smokers and non-smokers. However, smokers show less gingival inflammatory change, with less gum bleeding, gum redness and fluid flow from the gums. Hence, it appears that smoking A diagrammatic description of the attachment apparatus of the tooth. oManaging periodontal disease in a smoking population █ BYPROFESSOR DR DASAN SWAMINATHAN may suppress the normal immune response to the accumulation of plaque biofilm. The major clinical implication of these findings is that the masking of gum bleeding in smokers may lead to a failure to recognise the presence of periodontal disease. Possible mechanisms for this reduced gum bleeding include the vasoconstriction of gum blood vessels caused by smoking. Smoking and periodontitis (inflammation of the deeper supporting structures of the tooth). Recent studies have revealed an association between smoking and more severe periodontitis. Smoking has been shown to be associated with deeper periodontal pockets and eventually these pathologic pockets will reach the underlying bony structures (alveolar bone) below the soft gum tissues. The toxic by-product produced by bacteria within the plaque biofilm will travel via the periodontal pocketing, reaching into the deeper hard tissues and will cause the destruction and eventual loss of the alveolar bone. These processes will finally culminate in the tooth becoming mobile, leading to eventual tooth loss. There is also evidence that the rate of progression of periodontitis is more rapid among smokers. Possible mechanisms through which smoking alters the expression of periodontal diseases include effects on the composition of plaque biofilm and also effects on the host response. It has been hypothesised that smoking can reduce oxygen within the tissues (redox potential), which will favour anaerobic microorganisms that do not require oxygen to survive and multiply, leading to the formation of more pathogenic plaque biofilm. The vasoconstriction will also limit the ability of the tissues to deliver an immune response via the blood supply to the gum tissues. Advice to patients. How can gum disease be prevented? You can help avoid gum disease with proper oral hygiene habits by following these steps: 0 Brush your teeth twice a day. 0 Floss often to remove plaque. 0 Use antimicrobial mouth rinses like chlorhexidine if you have any issues with oral hygiene, like poor manual dexterity. 0 See your oral healthcare provider regularly for check-ups and for management of any gum disease. What can oral healthcare providers do to manage gum disease in smokers? Steps in the management of gum disease (stringent oral hygiene): 1. Scaling along the gum line to remove plaque and tartar 2. Root debridement to remove bacterial plaque, biofilm and tartar attached deep in the roots of the teeth. 3. Gum surgery to help manage gum or boneloss due to periodontal disease, where required. 4. A smoking cessation programme for patients who find it difficult to quit smoking. 5. Regular reviews and maintenance phases for patients whose disease is under control and oral hygiene is satisfactory. My experience in dealing with patients who are smokers In spite of the awareness of the adverse effects of smoking on health, many individuals will continue to be smokers. Many will not be aware of the effects that tobacco may have on their systemic and periodontal health. There is ample evidence in the literature to sencourage patients to reduce or stop smoking as part of the management of gum disease. Constant reminders to patients about the detrimental effects of smoking are advocated. Extra care needs to be taken in the periodontal examination of smokers. As mentioned earlier, it is likely that visual signs of periodontal disease, like bleeding on probing, will be masked. This will entail careful periodontal probing, clinical examination of gum tissues and radiographic examination to reveal the true level of destruction to the supporting structure of the teeth. Smokers need to be informed prior to the commencement of periodontal treatment that the outcome of their treatment may be compromised if they continue to smoke. The take-home message is that one should try to stop smoking to prevent the many health issues that are a consequence of smoking. Gum disease leads to tooth loss. - 123RF
TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 SCAN ME E: [email protected] Miti taking steps to address skilled labour shortage oIt is coordinating with Human Resources and Higher Education ministries, and engaging with TVET Council and manufacturing industry KUALA LUMPUR: The Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (Miti) is coordinating with the Ministry of Human Resources and the Ministry of Higher Education to address the issue of skilled labour shortage in the country, particularly in the manufacturing sector. Saying that the new Cabinet line-up is a “good team”, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said both ministries have agreed to set up a committee to address the issue. held yesterday concluded with a resolve on disciplined execution, as well as stronger public-private collaboration to ensure Malaysia’s reindustrialisation agenda – as outlined by the New Industrial Master Plan 2030 (NIMP2030) – remains on track. It stated that NIMP2030 serves as the cornerstone for Malaysia’s reindustrialisation. Miti said it looks forward to facilitating the shared responsibility by strengthening collaboration and partnership with key stakeholders. Almost 300 people from 24 ministries and Miti’s agencies, including representatives from 103 associations, chambers of commerce and business councils attended the dialogue. In his closing remarks, Tengku Zafrul highlighted several issues, such as gearing up SMEs on ESG disclosures via the National Industry ESG Framework (i-ESG); addressing the skilled talent gap in the manufacturing industry; attracting the right foreign direct investments; and getting the industry to embrace new technology as quickly as possible. He said, “A policy is only as good as its implementation. Proper execution of NIMP is increasingly pertinent for Malaysia to continue enhancing its national business and investment landscape competitiveness. “In putting our resources where our mouth is, Miti last year announced its Quarterly Report Card Day, where we will share progress of the various policies under Miti’s purview. We are currently developing a dashboard for both the NIMP and other key metrics from specific policies, to make it easier for industry members and the public to track our progress. As we track projects, we must also be bold enough to review targets, if necessary, so that we can correct our course occasionally.” Sabah out to attract ESG-conscious global investors KUALA LUMPUR: Sabah offers lucrative opportunities for environmental, social and governance (ESG) conscious global investors, according to Invest Sabah Bhd. Invest Sabah chief communications officer Datin Nirvana Jalil Ghani (pic) said the state is focusing on promoting ESG into Sabah. “The government allocates about RM30 million annually to Sabah for forest preservation. And this expenditure does not include other investments. As you can see, in terms of research, governance, and more, we are moving towards a completely green approach. That’s why, even regarding the investments we bring into Sabah, our focus is on green technology and anything related to environmental sustainability,“ she told SunBiz. Nirvana pointed to the uniqueness of Sabah which lies in the fact that 59% of Malaysia’s mangroves are located in the state which offers research and investment opportunities for local and international investors. “In terms of rainforest, Sabah boasts the second oldest rainforest globally and the oldest tropical rainforest,” she said. Currently, Sabah is seeking investment in manufacturing, tourism, agriculture, human capital, and infrastructure and utilities. Furthermore, although the state government has a policy against exporting raw materials, it invites investors to explore opportunities by investing in and establishing processing factories in Sabah. This encompasses, among others, a range of industries, including cocoa, timber and biomass. For manufacturing, Sabah has Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park (KKIP), wholly owned by the Sabah state government. Covering 8,320 acres, it comprises several components including industrial, commercial, R&D and institutions, residential and tourism development. Sabah is located within the B r u n e i - I n d o n e s i a - M a l a y s i a - Philippines East Asean Growth Area with international direct flights to Kota Kinabalu from China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, Philippines, Brunei, Singapore and South Korea. There are 2,309 flights arriving at Kota Kinabalu Airport, which equates to 77 flights per day or three flights per hour. On an average day, there is at least one flight arriving every 20 minutes (Aug 2023). From January to May 2022, there were 558,169 registered tourist arrivals compared to 102,965 in the previous year. In 2019, over nine million passengers passed through the KKIA, making it the second busiest airport in Malaysia after Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA) in terms of passenger and aircraft movements and the third busiest in terms of cargo handled. The state’s major trading partners are Peninsular Malaysia (RM16.4 billion export, RM18.4 billion import), China (RM7.6 billion export, RM3.1 billion import), Australia (RM4.1 billion export, RM275 million import), European Union (RM3.4 billion export, RM861 million import), and India (RM3.5 billion export, 460 million import). - by Hayatun Razak UK advisory group says M’sian palm oil is sustainable KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysian palm oil is sustainable, and its zero-tariff rate will be beneficial, according to the Trade and Agriculture Commission (TAC), an expert advisory group to the United Kingdom government. In a statement yesterday, Malaysian Palm Oil Council CEO Belvinder Sron said the new independent expert report clearly shows that Malaysia’s commitment to sustainability is clear and that the Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification scheme is the gold standard for sustainable palm oil certification. “The facts about Malaysia’s commitment to palm oil excellence are clear. MSPO is the gold standard for sustainable palm oil certification and can assure both importers and UK authorities that all legal requirements are met and no deforestation has taken place. “Malaysia leads the world in sustainable palm oil certification, and we look forward to supplying more high-quality sustainable palm oil to the UK and other markets,” she said. MPOC said the expert analysis concluded that the MSPO’s sustainability requirements meet and exceed UK legislation’s requirements. “There are potential benefits to the UK if more Malaysian palm oil is exported – because of higher sustainability standards in Malaysia compared with other countries. The UK should move ahead with the planned zero tariff on Malaysian palm oil. “The TAC provided expert advice to the UK government following the UK’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for a TransPacific Partnership (CPTPP), in 2023. Malaysia is a founding member of CPTPP,” it said. – Bernama █ BYHAYATUN RAZAK [email protected] BLand, MRCB, IJM shares up in early trade on KL-S’pore HSR bid news KUALA LUMPUR: Berjaya Land Bhd (BLand), IJM Construction Sdn Bhd and Malaysian Resources Corporation Bhd (MRCB) shares on Bursa Malaysia went up in early trading yesterday following an announcement of a consortium with Keretapi Tanah Melayu Bhd (KTMB). As at 10.12am, BLand and MRCB, which emerged among the most actively traded counters, gained half a sen each to 46 sen and 65.5 sen with 28.33 million and 39.54 million shares changing hands respectively, while IJM added 1 sen to RM2.24 with 2.23 million shares transacted. On Friday, BLand announced that its 70% owned subsidiary, Berjaya Rail Sdn Bhd, has formed a consortium with IJM Construction, MRCB and KTMB to bid for the Kuala Lumpur-Singapore high-speed rail (KL-SG HSR) project. In filings with Bursa Malaysia, the consortium members said they submitted the concept proposal for the HSR request for information on Jan 15.– Bernama EPIC targets profit of RM14.9m this year KUALA TERENGGANU: Eastern Pacific Industrial Bhd (EPIC) is targeting a profit of RM14.9 million this year versus last year’s RM7.8 million due to the growth in several business segments, especially activities at Kemaman Port. COO Mukhtar Suhaili said, “Last year, the company generated RM7.8 million in profit from four core segments -- port, renewable energy (solar), engineering services for the oil and gas industry and Kemaman Supply Base. “We are expecting an increase of up to RM14.9 million following a rise in new business activities, and the sudden and encouraging demand generated from Kemaman Port,” he said at EPIC’s Back To School 2024 programme here yesterday. In order to meet increasing demand for Kemaman Port’s services, the company has implemented a phased port expansion estimated to cost RM1.6 billion. While awaiting the project’s completion, EPIC has taken steps to increase the number of cranes at the port to improve service efficiency. Terengganu government-linked EPIC is a service provider for the oil and gas sector. – Bernama “We have also engaged with the National Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council for different levels of skills. We have also discussed with the industry how they should get involved in discussions at an early stage,” he told reporters after chairing Miti Dialogue 2024 yesterday. The minister said there is a skilled talent gap, particularly in the electrical and electronic (E&E) sector, stating that “50,000 engineers are needed annually, but Malaysian universities only produce 5,000 graduates in this field each year”. In a separate statement, the ministry said Miti Dialogue 2024
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 14 RM267.7m net foreign buying on Bursa last week PETALING JAYA: Foreign investors returned as net buyers of Bursa Malaysia last week, contributing to a net foreign inflow of RM267.7 million, according to MIDF Research. In its weekly fund flow, the research house said that foreign investors only net sold RM66.6 million on Tuesday, while they were net buyers for the remaining days of the week. MIDF pointed out that as expected, Bank Negara Malaysia kept its overnight policy rate unchanged in its first Monetary Policy Committee meeting of 2024 at 3%. MIDF said the top three sectors with the highest net foreign inflows were financial services (RM112.2 million), utilities (RM97.3 million) and property (RM86.6 million) while the top three sectors with the highest net foreign outflows were consumer products and services (RM39.6 million), industrial products and services (RM38.0 million) and healthcare (RM21.2 million). Furthermore, the research house remarked that local institutions turned net sellers for the week, after disposing RM167.1 million worth of equities. It added that they only net bought RM21.0 million on Tuesday albeit were net sellers for the rest of the week. “Local retailers were still on a net selling spree, net selling of RM100.6 million last week. This is their fourth consecutive week of net selling. Like local institutions, they only net bought on Tuesday at RM45.6 million but were net sellers for the entire week,” it remarked. In terms of participation, there was an increase in average daily trading volume among local institutions and foreign investors by 3.3% and 2.5% respectively while local retailers recorded a decrease of 14.6%. MAG to add 12 new aircraft to fleet in 2024, including first A330neo KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia Aviation Group Bhd (MAG) is set to expand its fleet by introducing 12 new aircraft in 2024, including its first Airbus 330-900 (A330neo), which is scheduled to arrive in the third quarter of this year. In a statement yesterday, the group said it is looking to receive four A330neo this year, alongside eight Boeing 737-8, to support its network growth requirements. MAG said it signed a memorandum of understanding with Airbus, RollsRoyce and Avolon in August 2022 for the acquisition of 20 A330neo scheduled to be delivered through to 2028. It added: “10 of the aircraft are directly purchased from Airbus with a back-to-back sale and leaseback arrangement with Avolon, while the remaining 10 are leased directly from Avolon.” The A330neo will provide improved operational efficiency to its fleet while also allowing it to address environmental targets by offering up to 25% reduction in fuel consumption and emissions, MAG said. It added that the acquisition underscores the group’s steadfast commitment as it seeks to provide modernity and elevate the standards of its service offerings while ensuring support for the post-pandemic growth of the aviation industry. MAG group managing director Datuk Capt Izham Ismail said the A330neo, which will be inducted in the third quarter of the year, will gradually replace the A330ceo in its fleet and operate across Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East. “We will continue to channel our investments into endeavours that strategically align with the key pillars driving our customer value proposition, namely cabin comfort, in-flight dining, and service delivery of our esteemed cabin crew,” he said. Additionally, the group will retrofit six of its A350-900s starting in 2026 to ensure consistent cabin standardisation and premium experiences for guests in line with the new A330neo cabin, further solidifying its fleet modernisation initiative. MAG currently has a fleet of 104 aircraft through its subsidiaries Malaysia Airlines, Firefly, MASwings, and MASkargo. – Bernama Malaysia’s producer price index slips 1.3% in December PETALING JAYA: Malaysia’s producer price index (PPI), which measures the prices of goods at the factory gate, continued to decrease in December 2023, recording negative 1.3% compared with negative 1.5% in the previous month, the Department of Statistics Malaysia (DoSM) reported yesterday. Chief Statistician Malaysia Datuk Seri Dr Mohd Uzir Mahidin said the decrease was attributed to the mining sector which was negative 3.4% (November: -4.7%), dragged down by declines in the extraction of natural gas (-7.8%) and the extraction of crude petroleum (-1.9%) indices. The manufacturing sector continued to drop – negative 1.5% in December against negative 1.4% in November, attributed to manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products (-12.3%) and manufacture of food products (-4.2%) indices. The electricity and gas supply sector went down by 0.6%, similar to the previous month. However, the agriculture, forestry and fishing sector increased by 1.3% after a negative 0.4% in November due to an incline in the animal production (6.3%) and the fishing (3.8%) indices. At the same time, the water supply index went up 0.4% in December. “On a monthly basis, PPI local production further decreased by negative 0.2% in December 2023 as compared to negative 0.7% in the previous month. With the exception of the agriculture, forestry & fishing sector which remained unchanged, all other sectors recorded a decline in this month. The mining sector fell negative 1.6% (November 2023: -4.7%) with the extraction of crude petroleum (-5.1%) index posting a decrease,” said Mohd Uzir. At the same time, the manufacturing sector declined 0.1% (November: -0.5%), affected by the index of manufacture of coke and refined petroleum products (-1.8%) and manufacture of food products (-0.4%). For the utility sector, electricity and gas and water supply indices decreased by 0.3% and 0.4%, respectively. Mohd Uzir said, “The crude materials for further processing index increased by 0.4% in December 2023 (November 2023: 0.3%), with the foodstuffs and feedstuffs index posting an increase of 4.3%. The finished goods index inclined by 1.1% (November: 1.7%), contributed by an increase in capital equipment (2%). By contrast, the intermediate materials, supplies and components index decreased by 3% (November: -3.4%) due to processed fuel and lubricants (-13.8%) and o PPI local production went down by 1.9% in 2023 the first decline since 2020, on lower commodity prices materials & components for manufacturing (- 2.2%) indices.” In 2023, Mohd Uzir said, the PPI local production went down by 1.9% after an increase of 7.8% in 2022. “This was the first decrease since 2020 due to the lower prices of Malaysia’s main commodities. Commodity prices in 2023 were perceived as highly uncertain due to price volatility, especially in energy markets. Crude oil prices have also experienced volatility due to a series of oil output cuts by the Opec+ and supply concerns related to the Israel-Hamas war. The intensifying geopolitical risks, including the potential for the war to escalate, could increase volatility in global energy supplies and prices,” he added. Commodity prices, as measured by the World Bank’s commodity price index, are projected to decline by 4% in 2024 after falling by nearly 24% in 2023, the steepest decline since the Covid-19 pandemic. Energy prices are projected to fall in 2024 and remain relatively flat in 2025. Agricultural prices are projected to decline throughout 2024 and 2025. Geopolitical risks are projected to have a limited effect on commodity prices in 2024, though they remain elevated. Proton Commerce achieves record loan disbursements in 2023 KUALA LUMPUR: Proton Commerce Sdn Bhd, the financing arm of Proton, is eyeing a higher number of loan disbursements in 2024 as it strives to be the number one financier of the national carmaker’s vehicles. Last year, Proton Commerce extended a total of 27,288 loans to Proton buyers, hitting a new high in the number of disbursements since its establishment two decades ago, the carmaker said in a statement yesterday. Proton said eight out of the 12 months in 2023 witnessed more than 2,000 disbursements, with March reaching an all-time high of 2,934 due to the rush to deliver bookings made during the National Economic Recovery Plan incentive period. Proton Commerce CEO Mooi Fi Phang said the firm’s annual market share in Proton financing has demonstrated a steady upward trajectory, progressively advancing from 9% in 2018 to an impressive 18% by the end of 2023. “In January and March 2023, our market position was noteworthy, positioning ourselves as the second-largest entity in terms of market share during this period,” he said. – Bernama
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Muruku Buntong entrepreneur’s Deepavali snack, made from a still a national favourite 60-year-old recipe, is constantly in high demand. Chicken price float benefits consumers A week after subsidies ended, market prices are competitive and lower than subsidised prices, says expert. Full report —on page 3 Full report —on page 6 Full report —on page 4 Citing protection of country’s interests in terms of diplomatic, economic relations and security as reasons for joining meeting, Anwar says he remains steadfast in defending justice and rights of Palestinians. I will show up at Apec Story on page 2 Full story -on page 2 SCAN TO SUBSCRIBE ‘HVGT, higher service tax to affect local auto sector’ KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia’s automotive industry is expected to be affected by the implementation of the High-Value Goods Tax (HVGT) and higher service tax rates this year, according to Maybank Investment Bank (Maybank IB). The bank said the HVGT to be implemented from May 1 could impact premium vehicle sales. Other factors to watch out for that could affect industry players are targeted subsidy rationalisation and higher service tax rates, which cover vehicle repair and maintenance services, it said in a research note yesterday. “(These) are expected to increase the costs of vehicle ownership and impact new car sales,” it added. Maybank IB also said that the rising trend from dealership to the agency model, driven mainly by Western carmakers’ plans to establish a stronger presence in Southeast Asia. It anticipated the total industry volume (TIV) to stabilise at 650,000 units in 2024, a 19% decrease year-on-year (y-o-y) after two consecutive record years of growth (2022: up 42%, 2023: up 11%). Maybank IB said the two key themes to watch for in 2024 are the increasing trend of agency model adoption and the acceleration of electric vehicle (EV) transition as the country has emerged as an increasingly attractive destination for foreign direct investments (FDI) from global automakers establishing their regional headquarter or EV hubs. This includes prominent names such as Volvo, Stellantis, Tesla, and Chery. Meanwhile, it said, carmakers such as MercedesoIndustry players may also face impact from targeted subsidy changes this year: Maybank IB Master Tec makes flat debut on ACE Market PETALING JAYA: Wires and cables manufacturer Master Tec Group Bhd has made its debut at 39 sen flat on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Bhd yesterday. In a media statement, the group said this is one step closer to the group’s plan to construct two new manufacturing plants in Alor Gajah, Malacca and to purchase new machinery and equipment to venture into the manufacturing of medium voltage power cables. Master Tec explained that this expansion will enable the group to market its new products to mostly capital intensive manufacturing industries that demand higher voltage of electricity power transmission such as automotive plants, semiconductor fabrication plants, chemical plants on top of electric vehicle manufacturing plants and their charging station facilities. Managing director Datuk Lau Kim San said that they are mindful of the opportunities coming from various new infrastructure projects and renewable energy projects to be rolled out under the National Energy Transition Roadmap and new manufacturing facilities to be established under the New Industrial Master Plan 2030. “We believe this expansion plan will allow us to meet increasing market demand and to fulfill larger orders from various market segments.” AirAsia MOVE unveils ticketing platform MOVETIX KUALA LUMPUR: AirAsia MOVE (formerly airasia Superapp) has teamed up with Coras, a prominent global ticket distribution platform to introduce MOVETIX, a brand new and innovative ticketing platform offering over 10,000 global events and activities complemented by flights, hotels, rides and more conveniently through one convenient app. MOVETIX is spearheaded by Hassan Choudhury, a seasoned professional in the entertainment industry who will continue his role as CEO of RedRecords, a joint venture between AirAsia and Universal Music. The MOVETIX platform on the AirAsia MOVE app is powered by Coras, whose network of partners include Ryanair, Pegasus, Frontier and more. To kickstart the launch, StarHub and World Football Legends announced the appointment of MOVETIX as the official ticketing partner of the upcoming StarHub Football Festival on April 20-21 in Tampines Hub, Singapore. Benz, BMW, Porsche, Audi, and Dong Feng have announced local assembly plans for vehicles targeting both domestic and export markets. “The influx of FDIs is expected to have a positive long-term impact on the industry, contingent on the position of auto players in the supply chain,” it said. As such, Maybank IB maintained a “neutral” rating on the automotive sector. It favoured Bermaz Auto Bhd (BAuto) for its strong fundamentals and resilient financial standing, robust free cash flows, and an attractive dividend yield offering of over 8%. “Despite our expectation of a y-o-y normalisation in TIV, our projection for BAuto’s earnings growth for financial year ending April 30, 2024, remains well-supported by sustained strong demand for Mazda. “Furthermore, BAuto’s earnings would benefit from an increasing completely knocked down mix in its portfolio. Potential addition of a new EV distributorship may further enhance its portfolio,“ it said. – Bernama
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 16 Hong Kong court orders liquidation of Evergrande oHeavily indebted developer unable to offer concrete restructuring plan HONG KONG: A court here yesterday ordered the liquidation of China Evergrande Group, a move likely to send ripples through China’s crumbling financial markets as policymakers scramble to contain a deepening crisis. Justice Linda Chan decided to liquidate the world’s most indebted developer, with more than US$300 billion (RM1.4 trillion) of total liabilities, after noting Evergrande had been unable to offer a concrete restructuring plan more than two years after defaulting on a bond repayment and after several court hearings. “It is time for the court to say enough is enough,” Chan said in the morning court session. She later appointed Alvarez & Marsal as the liquidator. Chan said the appointment of a liquidator would be in the interests of all creditors because it could take charge of a new restructuring plan for Evergrande at a time when its chairman, Hui Ka Yan, is under investigation for suspected crimes. Evergrande chief executive Siu Shawn told Chinese media the company will ensure home building projects will still be delivered despite the liquidation order. The ruling would not affect the operations of Evergrande’s onshore and offshore units, he added. “Our priority is to see as much of the business as possible retained, restructured, and remain operational. We will pursue a structured approach to preserve and return value to the creditors and other stakeholders,” said Alvarez & Marsal managing director Tiffany Wong after the appointment. The decision sets the stage for what is expected to be a drawn-out and complicated process with potential political considerations as investors watch whether the Chinese courts will recognise Hong Kong’s ruling, given the many authorities involved. Offshore investors will be focused on how Chinese authorities treat foreign creditors when a company fails. “It is not an end but the beginning of the prolonged process of liquidation, which will make Evergrande’s daily operations even harder,” said Natixis senior economist Gary Ng. “As most of Evergrande’s assets are in mainland China, there are uncertainties about how the creditors can seize the assets and the repayment rank of offshore bondholders, and situation can be even worse for shareholders.” Evergrande’s shares were trading down as much as 20% before the hearing. Trading was halted in China Evergrande and its listed subsidiaries China Evergrande New Energy Vehicle Group and Evergrande Property Services after the verdict. Evergrande, which has US$240 billion of assets, sent a struggling property sector into a tailspin when it defaulted on its debt in 2021 and the liquidation ruling will likely further jolt already fragile Chinese capital and property markets. Beijing is grappling with an underperforming economy, its worst property market in nine years and a stock market wallowing near five-year lows, so any fresh hit to investor confidence could further undermine policymakers’ efforts to rejuvenate growth. Evergrande applied for another adjournment yesterday as its lawyer said it had made “some progress” on the restructuring proposal. As part of the latest offer, the developer proposed creditors swap their debts into all the shares the company holds in its two Hong Kong units, compared to stakes of about 30% in the subsidiaries ahead of the last hearing in December. Evergrande’s lawyer argued liquidation could harm the operations of the company, and its property management and electric vehicle units, which would in turn hurt the group’s ability to repay all creditors. Evergrande had been working on a US$23 billion debt revamp plan with a group of creditors known as the ad hoc bondholder group for almost two years. A court document yesterday showed Evergrande’s key offshore assets also include an unsecured interest-free loan of HK$2.1 billion (RM1.3 billion) to a previous unit, China Ruyi , positions in the Greater Bay Area Homeland Investment and its fund with a total book value of HK$1.6 billion, bank balances of HK$3 million and receivables of 131.2 billion yuan (RM87 billion) owed by its subsidiaries. Evergrande could appeal the liquidation order, but the liquidation process would proceed pending the outcome of the appeal. – Reuters Thai economy in recession: Deputy minister BANGKOK: Thailand’s economy is in a state of recession owing to a high level of household debt, a deputy finance minister said yesterday, raising pressure on the central bank to cut interest rates. Julapun Amornvivat also said the government was committed to delivering on its signature 500 billion baht (RM66 billion) handout plan of transferring 10,000 baht (RM1,330) each to 50 million Thais, and hoped a delay in its rollout would not be long. He said the policy interest rate, which is at a decade-high of 2.50%, should be cut at the central bank’s next policy review on Feb 7 to help lower high borrowing costs. “The rate should be lowered as high rates now are people’s burden. “People can’t survive.”. Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin has also urged the central bank to cut the key rate to help Southeast Asia’s second-largest economy he says is in crisis. Bank of Thailand Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput, who has come under fire from the premier for not cutting rates despite negative inflation, told Reuters last week growth had been slower than expected but the economy was not in crisis. Sethaput said the current policy rate was “broadly neutral”. The central bank left its policy rate unchanged at 2.50% at its last rate meeting in November, having raised it by 200 basis points since August 2022 to curb inflation. The government last week slashed its 2024 growth projections for the economy to 2.8% from an earlier forecast of 3.2% on weaker exports and lower foreign tourist numbers. It also lowered the 2023 growth estimate to 1.8% from 2.7%, below 2022’s 2.6% growth. Official 2023 gross domestic product is due to be released by the planning agency on Feb 19. “If you ask, now it’s at the dangerous level. It’s a kind of economic recession,” Julapun said, adding the situation was driven by the high debt burden of households and the private sector. “It’s difficult to drive the economy forward. That’s why we’ve seen economic growth that has always been sluggish.” – Reuters Toyota suspends shipments of some models TOKYO: Toyota Motor said it would suspend shipments of some models, including the Hilux truck and Land Cruiser 300 SUV, after irregularities were found in certification tests for diesel engines developed by affiliate Toyota Industries. A special investigative committee had found irregularities during horsepower output testing for the certification of three diesel engine models. Ten models use the affected engines globally, Toyota said. They included the Hiace van, Fortuner SUV, Innova multi-purpose vehicle and Lexus-branded LX500D SUV, it said. Toyota, the world’s biggest automaker by sales, has been separately seeking to resolve a case of misconduct related to rigged collision safety tests at small car specialist Daihatsu. Toyota Industries said it sold about 84,000 affected automobile engines during the financial year to March 31, 2023. A Toyota spokesman could not immediately say how many affected vehicles the automaker had sold over the years. Toyota said the investigation found that electronic control units used during horsepower output testing were different from those used during engine production. Shares in Toyota Industries sank into negative territory shortly after the news and ended down 4% while Toyota Motor shares closed 3.1% higher. – Reuters Some of the 39 buildings developed by Evergrande, that are earmarked for demolition by the authorities due to environmental and construction violations, on the man-made Ocean Flower Island in Hainan province. – REUTERSPIC China to merge three major asset managers BEIJING: China plans to merge three of the nation’s biggest bad debt managers into sovereign wealth fund China Investment Corp (CIC) as part of a plan to reform financial institutions, state media reported. Three asset management companies (AMCs) – China Cinda Asset Management, China Orient Asset Management and China Great Wall Asset Management – will be incorporated into CIC, Xinhua Finance News reported on its website on Sunday, citing unidentified industry insiders. As of yesterday afternoon, the report was no longer accessible on its website. The Ministry of Finance is the largest shareholder of the three AMCs. The move is in line with a government commitment to separating its roles as regulator and shareholder of state-owned financial institutions. With lacklustre economic growth, regulators are curbing risk in the nation’s US$63 trillion (RM298 trillion) financial industry amid mounting local government debt and crisis in the real estate sector. China established four asset management companies (AMCs) in 1999 to help handle bad loans from its four largest state banks, which were facing the prospect of insolvency. But the distressed asset managers expanded beyond their initial remit, and themselves began to pose a risk to the financial system. The government established CIC in 2007 to diversify foreign exchange holdings and seek maximum returns, its website showed. It has registered capital of US$200 billion. China Huarong, which was renamed China CITIC Financial Asset Management last week, was excluded from the merger. The asset manager was taken over by state-owned conglomerate CITIC Group in an overhaul of the troubled asset manager from 2021. – Reuters
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 17 Philips to stop selling sleep devices in US THE HAGUE: Under-fire Dutch medical device maker Philips said yesterday it would halt new sales of sleep machines in the US after a series of recalls that continued to weigh on results. The firm trimmed its losses for 2023 compared with the previous year, as it seeks to bounce back from what it had described as a “very difficult” 2022. Philips posted losses of €463 million (RM2.2 billion) over the full year, compared with €1.6 billion in 2022, with chief executive Roy Jakobs hailing “strong results.” “While there is more work to be done, the progress we achieved in a volatile world lays a solid foundation for sustained performance.” Since 2021, the company has been battling a series of crises over its DreamStation machines for sleep apnoea, a disorder in which breathing stops and starts during sleep. “Resolving the consequences of the Respironics recall for our patients and customers is a key focus area and I acknowledge and apologise for the distress and concern caused,” said Jakobs. The firm said it had clinched a “consent decree” deal with US authorities that consists of a “roadmap” of targets to allow Philips to conform with regulatory requirements. “Until the relevant requirements of the consent decree are met, Philips Respironics will not sell new sleep therapy devices or other respiratory care devices in the US.” It said it had set aside a provision of €363 million in the fourth quarter to settle the deal, which still needs to be finalised and requires court approval. “We are fully committed to complying with the consent decree, which is an important step and provides a clear path forward,” said Jakobs. The firm’s latest woes came in November when the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warned that its new “DreamStation 2” machine to help patients sleep risked overheating. The US body said it had received reports “such as fire, smoke, burns, and other signs of overheating” from people using the machine. Philips said it had filed 270 reports of possible malfunctions with the FDA that covered a three-year period. The overheating issue was unrelated to a recall of sleep machines in 2021 that sent the company into turmoil. In that recall, the FDA said foam in the machine could potentially be breathed in or swallowed, posing possible health risks to patients. The recall and provisions for possible legal settlements pushed the firm deep into the red in 2022 and led to the loss of thousands of jobs. The company has already completed the vast majority of the recalls and announced in May that independent tests showed the respirators were “unlikely” to harm patients. – AFP Cement maker Holcim to spin off North American business GENEVA: Swiss construction giant Holcim announced on Sunday it aimed to fully spin off its North America business, which it said could be valued at US$30 billion (RM140 billion) in a US public listing. The company also announced that its board had picked Miljan Gutovic, who currently heads Holcim’s European operations, to replace Jan Jenisch as chief executive officer from May 1. Holcim, one of the world’s largest cement makers, said in a statement that it intends to list its North American business in the United States during the first half of 2025 “with full capital market separation”. It said it would communicate about the final structure later this year, but that the move would create a leading pure play North American building solutions company. Jensich, who has headed Holcim since 2017, will remain on as chairman of the group and will lead the US listing process, the company said. In Sunday’s statement, he explained the spinoff decision, pointing to Holcim’s “superior earnings profile with industry-leading margins and a strong balance sheet”. Holcim is currently the largest cement maker in North America, where it counts 850 sites. Jensich told reporters that once spun off, the new company could be valued at around US$30 billion, adding that Holcim was not planning to hold onto a stake. “We don’t intend that there will be any cross-participation after this has been completed.” “It’s going to be two independent companies,” he said, adding that the idea was to “make two independent champions”. Jenisch highlighted that North America had been Holcim’s best developing business in recent years. “It’s a rock star business,” he said, pointing out that it had been growing sales by more than 20% each year for the past four years. “This is simply too successful to be run as a subsidiary.”– AFP Investors expect Microsoft to outperform Apple SAN FRANCISCO: Microsoft’s early lead in artificial intelligence (AI) has the software heavyweight’s stock market value poised to pull decisively ahead of Apple’s over the next five years, 13 institutional investors unanimously agreed ahead of the tech titans’ quarterly results this week. Microsoft shares have surged 7% so far this year, recently sending its stock market value above US$3 trillion (RM14 trillion) and dethroning Apple as the world’s most valuable company. As of last Friday, the Redmond, Washington software maker’s market capitalisation was a few billion US dollars above Apple’s. Asked which would be more valuable five years from now, all 13 strategists and portfolio managers consulted by Reuters last week said they expect Microsoft to outpace Apple. Share prices and valuations could shift this oSoftware giant likely to grow faster due to early investments in AI week as Microsoft reports its quarterly results today, followed by Apple on Thursday. In the long term, though, all the investors consulted by Reuters said Microsoft’s recent successes in generative AI give it a powerful advantage over Apple. Still, the race between Apple and Microsoft could turn into a race for second place, some said, citing the huge recent gains by Nvidia, whose chips have powered the AI revolution. Microsoft made early investments in ChatGPT-maker OpenAI and is incorporating generative AI technology across its business. AI is likely to benefit Microsoft’s cloud-computing offerings as it competes with Amazon and Alphabet in that market. In its applications business, Outlook now offers users AI help composing e-mails. Microsoft “has more levers to pull in the forms of Azure cloud, gaming, enterprise software, and of course, AI is the most compelling,” said Baker Avenue Wealth Management chief strategist King Lip. “Apple is most reliant on the iPhone, which is a mature market, and the company has yet to detail how it will compete in the AI arms race.” Apple has been quietly incorporating AI into product functions, such as snapping better iPhone photos, but investors will want to hear more AI plans when the company reports its December quarter results. Microsoft’s shares also rallied 57% rally in 2023 thanks to its lead in generative AI. Its stock is now trading at 33 times expected earnings, compared a forward PE of 28 for Apple and around 20 for the S&P 500. “These are quality growth companies ... but in order to warrant these valuations, they need to continue to grow at aggressive clips. You’re going to need increases in productivity, and I think Microsoft is better poised than Apple to do so,” said Horizon Investments head of research Mike Dickson. Nvidia, now the most valuable chipmaker after its shares more than tripled last year, may also be a contender for the world’s most valuable company in the next few years, said Wayne Kaufman, chief market analyst at Phoenix Financial Services in New York. After hitting record highs last week, Nvidia’s market capitalization reached over US$1.5 trillion making it Wall Street’s fifth most valuable company. “I have told our brokers and clients that Nvidia is like Microsoft in the early 90s and Intel in the early 80s,” Kaufman said. – Reuters Wall Street girds for ugly Boeing earnings as CEO faces scrutiny NEW YORK: Boeing’s 737 MAX 9 planes have begun to fly again after the Jan 5 Alaska Airlines scare, but the episode is expected to weigh on the aviation giant’s finances for the foreseeable future. Both Alaska and United Airlines resumed service on the MAX 9 over the weekend following a three-week grounding after a panel blowout necessitated an emergency landing. The incident has heaped scrutiny on Boeing and CEO David Calhoun. Investors will get an initial appraisal of the financial consequences tomorrow when Boeing releases fourth-quarter results. Besides reporting another annual loss, Boeing is expected to withdraw commercial plane production targets that have been central to its medium-term financial outlook, which has included promises for much profitability in 2025 and 2026. The Alaska Airlines episode is also expected to add to costs, including compensation for airlines. However, these items may not surface until later this year, analysts said. Shares of Boeing have fallen nearly 18% since the troubled Alaska Airlines flight as investors bet on a toughened regulatory environment that slows plane deliveries. Bank of America analysts downgraded Boeing this week, concluding that “materially increased regulatory scrutiny” from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) would result in a “forced slowdown”. Boeing 737 MAX-9 planes under construction at a production facility in Renton, Washington. – REUTERSPIC The incident has also added to questions about Boeing leadership in light of sharp criticism of the company from airline customers. Calhoun spent part of last week on Capitol Hill meeting with lawmakers who have also promised public hearings. “They’re going to have to demonstrate change,” said Jeff Guzzetti, a former head of the FAA’s investigation division. Guzzetti said he expects management changes, but added: “I don’t know what that looks like or who.” The MAX 9 planes are beginning to return to service after the FAA last week cleared the jets following detailed inspections. But as part of its MAX 9 announcement, the FAA froze Boeing’s production level for the model until the company demonstrates improvement. That halt likely derails Boeing’s plans to lift MAX production from its 2023 target of around 38 per month to 50 per month in 2025 or 2026 – a boost it hoped would result in US$10 billion in free cash flow. – AFP
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 18 Oil rises on escalating tensions in Middle East market participants had been calling for regulators to step in on this front”. Homin Lee, at Lombard Odier, told Bloomberg Television “the very poor sentiment leading to this could potentially open the door for some technical rebound” in Chinese shares. “We’re slightly more cautious because what’s really needed is a change in the inflation outlook for the country and the overall sentiment in the private sector.” Shanghai edged down following news that a Hong Kong court had issued a winding-up order against Chinese developer Evergrande, stoking fresh worries about the property sector and economy. Traders were also awaiting a crucial policy decision by the US Federal Reserve this week and the release of more corporate earnings. While the Fed meeting is not expected to see any move on interest rates, traders hope to hear some guidance from officials on their plans, with a cut in March currently seen as a toss-up. The mostly upbeat day followed another record close for the Dow on Wall Street that came after the central bank’s preferred inflation gauge indicated prices were being brought under control. In Europe, London opened higher while Paris and Frankfurt were down. – Agencies Smoke billowing from British oil tanker MV Merlin Luanda after it was hit by a missile fired by the Houthis in the Gulf of Aden. – AFPPIC/INDIAN MINISTRY OF DEFENCE oEquities boosted by Beijing’s latest move to support troubled markets Watchdog proposes code to combat greenwashing LONDON: Firms that check environmental, social and governance claims made by companies will be asked to follow a proposed new ethics code to help combat greenwashing, the chief of a global standards body told Reuters. Trillions of dollars have flowed into investment funds touting green credentials, but these can be misleading, a practice known as greenwashing. As a result, firms are increasingly being asked to disclose more about their actions on climate change and other issues such as board diversity. Companies in the European Union and globally from this year will have to use new, mandatory disclosures on ESG and climate-related factors in their annual reports for 2024 and onwards. These disclosures will need checking by external auditors as a safeguard against greenwashing. International Ethics Standards Board for Accountants (IESBA) chairman Gabriela Figueiredo Dias said it was proposing revisions and additions to its ethics standards for auditing sustainability information from companies. The IESBA is an independent global body that sets ethics standards for business and other organisations. The standards spell out best practice for verifying a company’s sustainability claims by offering detailed instructions in areas such as accounting for the impact of corporate actions on emissions, relying on outside experts, and identifying and tackling conflicts of interest. “There is nothing more central to sustainable finance than the information that is provided to those who decide to invest or fund projects and businesses.” Dias said the proposed standards, which will be open for public consultation until May, would complement the development of new technical assurance standards from the International Auditing and Assurance Standards Board. “Ethics is the baseline for the whole infrastructure. If you think about greenwashing and misinformation, (it) always has behavioural issues at its root and not technical reporting reasons.” “It’s not because preparers and providers don’t know what they have to report and assure, it’s because there are ethical or independence issues such as conflicts of interest,” she said. Global securities watchdog IOSCO has encouraged the moves by IESBA to update its standards as climate related disclosures under mandatory rules, rather than private sector guidance, are rolled out, making enforcement against greenwashing easier. – Reuters EU threatens to sabotage Hungary’s economy if Orban vetoes Ukraine aid LONDON: The European Union will sabotage Hungary’s economy if Budapest blocks fresh aid to Ukraine at a summit this week, under a confidential plan drawn up by Brussels, the Financial Times reported on Sunday. Brussels has outlined a strategy to explicitly target Hungary’s economic weaknesses, imperil its currency and drive a collapse in investor confidence in a bid to hurt “jobs and growth” if Budapest refuses to lift its veto on the aid to Kyiv, the newspaper reported, citing a document drawn up by EU officials. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has become a vocal critic of the bloc’s support for Ukraine and boasted about his ties with the Kremlin since Russia went to war in Ukraine in February 2022. The document declares that “in the case of no agreement in the Feb 1, other heads of state and government would publicly declare that in the light of the unconstructive behaviour of the Hungarian PM . . . they cannot imagine that” EU funds would be provided to Budapest. Hungary’s EU minister Janos Boka said Budapest was not aware of the financial threat, but that the country “does not give in to pressure”. However, Orban’s political director said yesterday that Hungary was open to using the EU budget for a proposed €50 billion euro (RM256 billion) aid package to Ukraine, a major shift in Budapest’s stance from just a few weeks ago. Balazs Orban confirmed on X that Budapest had sent a proposal to Brussels on Saturday showing it was open to using the EU budget for the aid package and issuing common EU debt to finance it if other “caveats” were added. – Reuters Startup raises funds for carbon credit-backed insurance LONDON: An insurance startup founded by three former Allianz executives that aims to guarantee companies buying carbon credits get the permits they’ve paid for has closed the biggest European climate-focused seed funding round in more than a year. CarbonPool raised 10.5 million Swiss francs (RM58 million) in the round led by Heartcore Capital and Vorwerk Ventures, two executives told Reuters, alongside HCS Capital, Revent Ventures and former Allianz board members Axel Theis and Christof Masher. That is the second-biggest climate finance seed funding round globally and the biggest in Europe since the start of 2023, industry tracker PitchBook said. The company’s approach guarantees companies buying carbon credits will receive the permits they have ordered even if the issuer cannot deliver them – for example, if the forest backing a credit is destroyed by wildfires. CarbonPool plans to do this by buying high-quality carbon credits that it will keep on its balance sheet and pay out when needed. Uncertainty on whether permits will be delivered is one issue holding back market growth, co-founder and chief operating officer Nandini Wilcke told Reuters. “(Buyers) are in the uncomfortable position that right now there’s no guarantee that the offsets they buy in advance are actually going to materialise and in the number that they’re expecting and reporting on in their financial disclosures. “Insurance is basically the missing piece.” The approach, currently being assessed by the Swiss regulator, is previously unreported. Data gathered between 2000 and 2023 and shared with Reuters by industry tracker AlliedOffsets shows the average issuance success rate for carbon permits was just 45%. Failure to secure the expected credits can leave corporate buyers short of those needed to meet their climate goals. While companies issuing carbon permits can already insure the assets that back them, no provider currently pays for the value of the carbon credit itself. “If you have a fire, what they pay you back is the amount of money you spent to put those trees in the ground,“ said Peter Fernandez, CEO of Brazilian carbon removal startup Mombak, which is backed by investors including AXA Investment Managers and Bain Capital. “They don’t pay you back the carbon credits that you lost, which is a much more expensive thing. “What we need is ‘you lose carbon credits, you get back carbon credits’.” – Reuters HONG KONG: Oil rose yesterday on fresh Middle East fears as President Joe Biden pledged to retaliate after blaming Iran-backed rebels for a deadly attack on US troops, while equities were boosted by China’s latest move to support its troubled markets. Brent crude futures rose 26 cents, or 0.3%, to US$83.81 a barrel by 0740 GMT (3.40pm in Malaysia) after hitting a session-high of $84.80. West Texas Intermediate crude futures gained 23 cents, or 0.3%, to US$78.24 a barrel after reaching an intraday high of US$79.29 earlier. The drone strike on a base in Jordan – which came days after Yemen’s Huthi group struck a vessel in the Red Sea – ramped up tensions in the region and stoked worries about supplies through the key trade waterway. “The news of three US troops being killed by a drone attack, and Biden saying ‘we shall respond’, will likely dial up the market’s focus on the region,” Andrew Ticehurst at Nomura said. The development comes as Israel presses on with its war against Hamas, adding to investor concerns about a wider conflagration that brings in Iran and the United States. Still, the reports did little to dent equity markets in Asia. There were gains in Hong Kong, Tokyo, Sydney, Seoul, Mumbai, Bangkok, Taipei, Jakarta and Wellington. Traders welcomed news that China would stop the lending of certain shares for short selling as officials try to put a floor under the country’s battered markets. Willer Chen of Forsyth Barr Asia said that while the move would likely have a limited effect on stabilising equities, it was “a good gesture as
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 19 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) MPI 29.04 -0.76 1,093 F&N 27.52 -0.66 1,000 PETDAG 21.08 -0.28 1,788 HSI-HPW 1.09 -0.27 20 APOLLO 5.62 -0.14 439 YTL-C66 0.995 -0.105 453 HSSEB 1.07 -0.1 80,591 KEN 0.57 -0.095 130 CHINTEK 7.45 -0.09 20 GENP 6.31 -0.09 6,188 KESM 6.81 -0.09 57 SEEHUP 0.92 -0.09 400 SBAGAN 4.86 -0.09 544 SMRT 0.895 -0.085 103,563 ALLIANZ 19.46 -0.08 78 PBA 2.26 -0.08 27,618 VITROX 6.85 -0.08 6,047 HARTA 2.74 -0.07 91,224 HLIND 9.25 -0.07 447 IGBB 2.31 -0.07 271 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (RM) VOLUME (’00) HEIM 25.9 +2.100 5,483 CARLSBG 19.3 +0.300 1,063 PPB 14.72 +0.240 3,661 HUMEIND-LA 4.08 +0.180 120 SIMEPLT 4.52 +0.170 38,906 HLFG 16.44 +0.160 2,799 BURSA 7.47 +0.150 33,637 KSL 1.6 +0.130 52,819 YNHPROP 0.845 +0.130 1,787,100 AMWAY 6.64 +0.110 235 AXIATA 2.72 +0.110 221,701 PERTAMA 2.61 +0.110 70,909 SUNWAY 2.68 +0.110 267,762 AYER 7.1 +0.100 153 KSENG 6.04 +0.100 2,234 NESTLE 119.3 +0.100 455 PGF-PA 0.82 +0.100 454 AFFIN 2.5 +0.090 84,890 MAYBANK 9.23 +0.090 91,026 SUNWAY-WB 1.29 +0.090 40,312 STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/-(RM) +/-(%) VOLUME MINETEC 0.15 -0.005 -3.23 2,291,496 YNHPROP 0.845 +0.130 +18.18 1,787,100 MRCB 0.645 -0.005 -0.77 1,692,426 MTEC 0.36 -0.03 -7.69 1,068,015 WIDAD 0.155 -0.01 -6.06 1,041,340 MRCB-WB 0.145 +0.005 +3.57 937,173 FITTERS 0.04 -0.01 -20.00 837,367 DNONCE 0.105 -0.02 -16.00 788,096 BJLAND 0.46 +0.005 +1.10 639,648 HSI-CVE 0.275 +0.015 +5.77 598,552 HSI-CTE 0.085 - - 518,878 BPURI 0.07 -0.01 -12.50 497,207 ASB 0.135 -0.005 -3.57 479,976 SCIB 0.41 -0.035 -7.87 479,277 KJTS 0.47 -0.03 -6.00 462,430 LEFORM 0.165 -0.015 -8.33 446,077 SIMEPROP 0.77 +0.015 +1.99 441,165 YTL 2.38 -0.07 -2.86 424,857 MINETEC-PA 0.075 - - 403,154 SCABLE 0.26 -0.005 -1.89 397,376 SUNBIZ presents a summary of the day’s trading activity on Bursa Malaysia and other markets in an easy to digest format. MARKET ROUND-UP: JANUARY 29 [ Sources: Bursa Malaysia, Bernama, shareinvestor.com and websites DISCLAIMER: The data and reports are provided as a service to investors. Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd shall not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. INDEX CHANGE FBMEMAS 11,281.10 +48.39 FBMKLCI 1,515.39 +9.11 CONSUMER PRODUCTS 563.12 +2.22 INDUSTRIAL PRODUCTS 174.88 +0.96 CONSTRUCTION 209.58 -1.18 FINANCIAL SERVICES 16,942.50 +116.88 ENERGY 883.56 +5.01 TELECOMMUNICATIONS 594.36 +1.07 HEALTH CARE 1,977.31 -14.87 TRANSPORTATION 963.97 -2.99 PROPERTY 928.90 +4.48 PLANTATION 7,262.60 +96.88 FBMSHA 11,331.40 +41.77 FBMACE 4,819.18 -22.95 TECHNOLOGY 63.18 -0.18 TURNOVER: 4.319 bil VALUE: RM2.983 bil Top 20 Actives Top 20 Gainers (By RM) Top 20 Losers (By RM) Bursa Indices STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) HIBISCS-C55 0.025 +150.00 300 NIKKEI-C5 0.14 +100.00 3,999 PHB 0.01 +100.00 2,301 HKEX-CO 0.075 +66.67 1,333 AXIATA-C96 0.04 +60.00 4,910 AEM 0.015 +50.00 1,620 AXIATA-C95 0.03 +50.00 10,980 IHH-C38 0.03 +50.00 500 KIMLUN-WA 0.015 +50.00 360 PERMAJU-WA 0.015 +50.00 350 TECHNAX 0.015 +50.00 8,555 TWL-WE 0.015 +50.00 210,079 IJM-C77 0.205 +46.43 700 FBMKLCI-CIX 0.105 +40.00 1 BURSA-C75 0.09 +38.46 17,356 AFFIN-C6 0.145 +38.10 850 CIMB-C1F 0.2 +37.93 200 ITMAX-CC 0.11 +37.50 501 MAYBANKC1F 0.055 +37.50 2,210 MBSB-C62 0.055 +37.50 15,800 Top 20 Gainers (By %) STOCKS CLOSING (RM) +/- (%) VOLUME (’00) AZRB-WA 0.005 -50.00 2,300 BORNOIL-WD 0.005 -50.00 3,124 FBMKLCI-HML 0.005 -50.00 2,000 TANCO-CC 0.015 -50.00 1,070 VIZIONE-WE 0.005 -50.00 2,001 XL-WA 0.005 -50.00 18,193 CLASSITA-WC 0.01 -33.33 1,362 FBMKLCI-HMQ 0.02 -33.33 500 FBMKLCI-HMU 0.07 -33.33 200 FBMKLCI-HMX 0.1 -33.33 250 HSI-HSO 0.01 -33.33 24,033 KOSSAN-C63 0.1 -33.33 7,420 MLAB 0.01 -33.33 4,912 SKPRES-C21 0.01 -33.33 2,900 DXN-CE 0.025 -28.57 200 LAMBO 0.025 -28.57 7,016 MYEG-C5J 0.055 -26.67 5,000 KANGER-WB 0.015 -25.00 2,052 NEXGRAM-WD 0.015 -25.00 44 NIKKEI-H6 0.015 -25.00 4,000 Top 20 Losers (By %) INDEX CLOSING DAILY DAILY CHANGE CHANGE (%) DJIA (US) 38109.43 +60.30 +0.16 S&P 500 (US) 4890.97 -3.19 -0.07 NASDAQ (US) 15455.36 -55.14 -0.36 NYSE (US) 16949.11 +59.59 +0.35 EURO STOXX 50 (EUR) 4627.40 -8.07 -0.17 FTSE 100 (UK) 7649.96 +14.87 +0.19 DAX (GER) 16877.08 -84.31 -0.50 NIKKEI 225 (JPN) 36026.94 +275.87 +0.77 TOPIX INDEX (JPN) 2529.48 +31.83 +1.27 HANG SENG INDEX (HK) 16077.24 +125.01 +0.78 CSI 300 (CHN) 3303.96 -29.86 -0.90 MSCI ASIA PACIFIC 165.07 -1.49 -0.89 SHANGHAI SE COM (CHN) 2883.36 -26.87 -0.92 KOSPI INDEX (SK) 2500.65 +22.09 +0.89 ASX 200 (AUS) 7578.45 +23.08 +0.31 ALL ORDINARIES INDX (AUS) 7,808.30 +23.08 +0.30 SENSEX INDEX (IND) 71915.63 +1214.96 +1.72 FBM KLCI 1515.39 +9.11 +0.60 STRAITS TIMES INDEX (S’PORE) 3140.31 -19.22 -0.61 WTI (US$/BBL.) 77.78 -0.23 -0.29 BRENT (US$/BBL.) 83.33 -0.22 -0.26 GOLD (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 2048.10 +12.00 +0.59 SILVER (COMEX) (US$/T OZ) 23.08 +0.21 +0.91 PLATINUM (US$/T OZ) 912.73 -2.95 -0.32 COPPER (COMEX) (US CENTS/LB.) 384.00 -1.20 -0.31 COPPER 3MO (LME) (US$/MT) 8545.50 -23.00 -0.27 CORN (US CENTS/BU.) 442.25 -4.00 -0.90 WHEAT (US CENTS/BU.) 591.50 -8.75 -1.46 SOYBEAN OIL (CBOT) (US CENTS/LB.) 46.52 -0.41 -0.87 COCOA (ICE) (US$/MT) 4672.00 +47.00 +1.02 RUBBER (S’PORE) (US CENTS/KG) 153.70 -0.90 -0.58 World Stocks/Commodities as at 5pm, Jan 29 Bursa stretches winning streak into sixth trading day KUALA LUMPUR: Bursa Malaysia maintained its upward trajectory to end higher for the sixth straight trading day yesterday, with the key index breaking the 16-month high, on the back of persistent buying in plantation and financial services counters, dealers said. The FBM KLCI gained 9.11 points to end at 1,515.39 from Friday’s close of 1,506.28. The barometer index, which opened 1.83 points better at 1,508.11, moved between 1,507.88 and 1,518.44 throughout the day. Decliners led advancers 513 to 499 on the broader market, while 471 counters were unchanged, 805 untraded and 64 others suspended. Turnover decreased to 4.32 billion units valued at RM2.98 billion from 4.92 billion units worth RM3.42 billion on Friday. Rakuten Trade Sdn Bhd equity research vice-president Thong Pak Leng said the key regional indices closed mostly higher with strong gains in energy stocks following the surge in crude oil prices. “Bargain hunting persists in Hong Kong as China’s market regulator implements various measures to support the markets,” he told Bernama yesterday. Japan’s Nikkei 225 rose 0.77% to 36,026.94, Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index improved 0.78% to 16,077.24, while Singapore’s Straits Times Index decreased 0.61% to 3,140.31, and China’s SSE Composite Index declined 0.92% to 2,883.36. For the local bourse, Thong maintained a cautiously optimistic outlook on the market, given the improving investor sentiment. Among the heavyweights, Maybank perked 9 sen to RM9.23, Public Bank and CIMB rose 4 sen each to RM4.41 and RM6.22, respectively, Petronas Chemicals added 3 sen to RM6.73, while Tenaga Nasional fell 4 sen to RM10.50. 1,515.39pts Jan 29, 2024 Participation 24.0 44.6 31.4 100.0 Retail Institutions Foreign Bought RM m 716.9 1378.7 888.4 2984.0 Sold RM m 718.0 1281.5 984.5 2984.0 Net RM m -1.1 97.2 -96.1 0.0 % Preliminary stats (excluding trade amendments). For final data, please refer to www.bursamalaysia.com Source: Bursa Malaysia A Participating Organisation of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad A Trading Participant of Bursa Malaysia Derivatives Berhad S E C U R I T I E S S D N. B H D. 197201001092 (12738-U) 29/1/2024
BIZ & FINANCE BIZ & FINANCE TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 20 MARKETS/FROM THE BROKERS SUNBIZ presents extracts of a selection of commentaries and research reports received from stockbrokers on counters that could be of interest to investors. [Compiled by SunBiz Team DISCLAIMER: The information is extracted from stockbrokers’ commentaries and research reports and do not represent the views or opinions of Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd. It is not a solicitation, recommendation or an offer to buy or sell the equities featured. Sun Media Corporation shalll not be liable or responsible for any consequences resulting from usage of the information. KLCC announced the proposed acquisition of the remaining 40% stake in Suria KLCC not owned by them for RM1.95 billion, putting its overall value at RM4.88 billion. This would boost its overall bottom line contribution from the retail segment, which presently makes up 40% of the group’s earnings. We are positive with the deal as it could support the desired yield of 6%-7% at a group level. Based on FY22 retail segment’s pretax profit of M380 million, this translates to a yield of 7% from Suria KLCC alone based on complete ownership. While KLCC is still responsible for the shareholders of other assets (i.e. 25% to Mandarin Oriental Hotel), we opine this move could still drastically reduce its minority interest payments as hotel operations have only recently broke even, in Q3’23. Based on FY22 earnings, RM129 million was paid in minority interest leading to group net profit of RM783 million. We raise our FY24F earnings by 7% as we adjust for substantially lower minority interests in 2H’24 attached to Suria KLCC. The adjustment is premised on meeting the target completion date of Q2‘24. Meanwhile, we raise the group’s borrowings by RM1.95 billion per its intention to fund the acquisition via debt. We raise our TP to RM7.73 (from RM7.18) based on an unchanged target yield of 5.5% (derived from a 1.5% yield spread above our 10-year MGS assumption of 4%) against a higher FY24 DPU of 42.5 sen (from 39.5 sen) in accordance to our earnings adjustment above. Our distribution is based on a 95% payout, in line with historical averages. Upgrade to OUTPERFORM from MARKET PERFORM. SADDLED with RM637 million in net debt in April 2022, TSH agreed to sell 13,898ha of mostly unplanted agriculture land for RM731 million cash. 7,817ha of the land was sold in August 2022 followed by another 575ha in January 2023. All in all, TSH has received RM457 million in cash. Coupled with operating cash flows, net debt has been pared to just RM88 million as of September 2023. Unlike the past few decades, moving ahead, TSH expects more modest growth from palm oil supply even as edible oil demand is likely to continue growing. As such, the group will not rule out further expansion, organically or via acquisitions. However, the top priority for the next two to three years is to grow organically, planting up another 8k-10k ha of oil palm land which the group already owns. After the NE Kalimantan land sales, TSH should still have 60k ha of land left with only 40k ha planted up with oil palm. More importantly, the divesture has allowed TSH to re-capitalise and it is now planning to develop new oil palm area. In Sept 2023, SGX welcomed the secondary listing of TSH to its mainboard. TSH’s primary listing remains on Bursa but sees wider opportunities with a SGX presence. Maintain OUTPERFORM, FY23-24F CEPS and TP of RM1.30 based on average P/NTA of 0.8x for smaller to mid-sized plantation players. Risks to our call include: (i) Western hostility towards palm oil on sustainability and bio-diversity issues, (ii) impact of weather and labour shortages on production, (iii) weak CPO and palm kernel prices, and (iv) cost inflation particularly fertilisers. DXN’S Q3’24 core net profit of RM78 million (+14% YoY, +2% QoQ) brought 9M’24 core net profit to RM245 million (+7% YoY). The latter reflected 72%/74% of our/consensus full-year earnings estimates. A third interim DPS of 0.9 sen (9M’24: 2.6sen, DPR: 55%). DXN’s Q3’24 revenue eased 2% QoQ mainly due to Q2’24 front loading activities that occurred in Peru & Bolivia before product price hikes (c.+8%-9%) took place in September 2023, and slower inventory exports to external distributors in the Middle East. Q3’24 EBIT margin grew +0.6ppts QoQ from lower donation expense. YoY, DXN’s growing presence in Latin America and India drove revenue growth (+2.5% YoY) while lower effective tax rate of 32% (-2.8ppts YoY) led to core net profit growth of 14% YoY. We anticipate sequentially stronger earnings once the full impact of the price hikes is reflected across all its countries of operations, alongside stock replenishments at DXN’s key markets (i.e. Peru & Bolivia). The completion of several production facilities in China, India and Dubai, will also continue to aid further inroads into Latin America going forward. We keep our earnings estimates unchanged pending DXN’s analyst briefing on Jan 29. We make no changes to our earnings estimates, BUY call and TP of RM0.90 (based on 11x CY24E PER). There are several risk factors for our earnings estimates, price target, and rating for DXN Holdings. High concentration of sales in Latin America poses a risk to earnings if any country-specific risks arise. Additionally, sharp depreciation in USD/EUR against MYR will also affect its earnings as >90% of sales are denominated in foreign currency. FOREIGN CURRENCY SELLING TT/OD BUYING TT BUYING OD 1 US Dollar 4.7990 4.6630 4.6530 1 Australian Dollar 3.1760 3.0490 3.0330 1 Brunei Dollar 3.5760 3.4720 3.4640 1 Canadian Dollar 3.5650 3.4680 3.4560 1 Euro 5.2150 5.0450 5.0250 1 New Zealand Dollar 2.9420 2.8350 2.8190 1 Singapore Dollar 3.5760 3.4720 3.4640 1 Sterling Pound 6.1090 5.9180 5.8980 1 Swiss Franc 5.5440 5.4180 5.4030 100 UAE Dirham 132.2800 125.4200 125.2200 100 Bangladesh Taka 4.4590 4.1670 3.9670 100 Chinese Renminbi 67.3700 64.5100 N/A 100 Danish Krone 71.7000 65.9700 65.7700 100 Hongkong Dollar 62.1100 59.0100 58.8100 100 Indian Rupee 5.8700 5.5100 5.3100 100 Indonesian Rupiah 0.0314 0.0284 0.0234 100 Japanese Yen 3.2430 3.1390 3.1290 100 New Taiwan Dollar N/A N/A N/A 100 Norwegian Krone 47.3100 43.4900 43.2900 100 Pakistan Rupee 1.7500 1.6400 1.4400 100 Philippine Peso 8.6500 8.1500 7.9500 100 Qatar Riyal 133.2000 126.4500 126.2500 100 Saudi Riyal 129.4600 122.9000 122.7000 100 South Africa Rand 26.4700 23.9000 23.7000 100 Sri Lanka Rupee 1.5500 1.4300 1.2300 100 Swedish Krona 47.3600 43.1200 42.9200 100 Thai Baht 14.0800 12.4800 12.0800 Exchange Rates Source: Malayan Banking Bhd/Bernama Ringgit ends lower against dollar ahead of Fed decision KUALA LUMPUR: The ringgit ended easier against the US dollar amid cautious trading ahead of the US’ interest rate decision this week, an economist said. At 6pm, the ringgit fell to 4.7310/7360 against the greenback compared to last Friday’s closing rate of 4.7275/7325. Bank Muamalat Malaysia Bhd chief economist Dr Mohd Afzanizam Abdul Rashid said the ringgit was traded in a tight range yesterday as the market’s focus shifted towards the US Federal Open Market Committee meeting on Jan 30-31. “In light of the recent better-than-expected US gross domestic product data for the fourth quarter of 2023, the Federal Reserve is likely to maintain their restrictive monetary stance. “This could keep the US dollar well supported and by extension, keep the ringgit trading in a narrow range,“ he said. Meanwhile, the ringgit was traded mostly higher against a basket of major currencies, except for the Japanese yen where it depreciated to 3.2020/2056 from 3.1988/2024 at Friday’s close. The local note inched up vis-a-vis the British pound to 6.0093/0157 from 6.0120/0183 and ticked up against the euro to 5.1204/1258 from 5.1279/1333 previously. At the same time, the local note was traded mostly lower against Asean currencies. It was almost flat against the Singapore dollar at 3.5269/5309 versus 3.5267/5307 on Friday and was weaker versus the Thai baht at 13.2949/3153 from 13.2679/2879 previously. – Bernama KIP REIT achieves best-ever second-quarter earnings surge KUALA LUMPUR: KIP Real Estate Investment Trust (KIP REIT) delivered gross revenue of RM22.6 million in its second quarter ended Dec 31, 2023 (Q2’24), 12% higher as compared to RM20.2 million in the preceding year’s corresponding quarter. Of this RM22.6 million, the investment properties for the retail segment accounted for 94.3% while the industrial segment contributed 5.7%. For the retail segment, the southern region continued to be the highest revenue contributor. The revenue grew by 5.3% to RM10.4 million, equivalent to 49% of the segment’s revenue. Revenue from the central region increased 15.6% to RM6.4 million, 29.8% of the segment’s revenue. KIP REIT’s Aeon Mall Kinta City in the northern region registered RM4.5 million or 21.2% of the segment’s revenue. Net property income (NPI) rose by 10.7% from RM15.2 million to RM16.8 million in Q2’24. Profit after tax (PAT) in turn grew 31% to RM10.6 million against Q2’23’s RM8.1 million and correspondingly, income available for distribution was RM10.9 million, up by 30.6%. On a cumulative 6 months basis, KIP REIT registered an increase of 13.7% in gross revenue to RM45 million, in comparison to the same period previous year’s of RM39.5 million. NPI and PAT improved by 12.9% and 24.3% respectively to RM33.3 million and RM21 million. KIP REIT CEO Valerie Ong Pui Shan said, “I am pleased with the financial performance being the best second quarter ever. Year to date, our average occupancy rate continues to be over 90%, which exhibits the attractiveness of our properties and our capability to attract the right mix of shoppers and tenants.” DXN Holdings Bhd Buy. Target price: RM0.90 Source: Kenanga Research Source: Maybank Investment Bank Jan 29, 2024: RM7.26 Jan 29, 2024: RM0.655 KLCCP Stapled Group Outperform. Target price: RM7.73 Source: Kenanga Research Jan 29, 2024: RM1.05 TSH Resources Bhd Outperform. Target price: RM1.30
Traversing raversingtrails Adventure on wheels - P22 dventure on wheels - P22 WEEKLY FOCUS MONDAY Discover cuttingedge world of Gaming and Tech TUESDAY Ultimate guide to Travel and Leisure WEDNESDAY Latest in Fashion and Beauty sense THURSDAY Inside the world of Social Media Influencers FRIDAY Culinary delights and Beverage trends TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 Editorial T: 03-7784 6688 F: 03-7785 2624/5 E: [email protected] Advertising T: 03-7784 8888 F: 03-7784 4424 SCAN ME E: [email protected] INSIDE p 23 Malaysia’s birding adventure p 24 Legacy of a cannibal p 25 Jodie Foster applauds Barbie p 26 Music industry under siege
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 22 BBST Walk transforms into an art market, featuring the skills of local artisans on weekends. – PICS BY AMIRUL SYAFIQ/ THESUN Sepang escapes ARE you yearning for an exhilarating yet budgetfriendly weekend escapade that effortlessly blends heritage sites, contemporary attractions and awe-inspiring natural vistas? Look no further than the vibrant region of Sepang in Selangor, a kaleidoscope of excitement waiting to be explored. The best part? You can now immerse yourself in an extraordinary travel experience through the often-overlooked rural landscapes of Selangor, all made hassle-free and relaxing with the Hop-On, Hop-Off (HoHo) bus service. Get ready for an adventure that promises convenience, excitement and an unforgettable journey through the heart of Selangor. Begin your thrilling journey in the tranquil town of Bandar Baru Salak Tinggi (BBST). Hop on the HoHo Selangor bus to the hidden gem of Lorong Seni, a street art lane reminiscent of the artistic charms of George Town and Ipoh. This alley is a vibrant canvas adorned with enormous murals that narrate Sepang’s rich history and culture. Known as BBST Walk, the lane transforms into an art market on weekends, featuring local artisans showcasing their skills. As you stroll through BBST Walk, immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry depicted on the murals, offering insights into the indigenous way of life. This rural initiative not only enriches your travel experience but also boosts tourism by presenting an array of local products, from intricately crafted handicrafts to traditional delicacies. The BBST Walk comes alive every Saturday and Sunday from eight in the morning to noon, promising a delightful exploration of Sepang’s artistic and cultural heritage. Just a short 30-minute drive from the airport, the HL Dragon Fruit Eco Farm beckons as a haven for dragon fruit enthusiasts. Established in 2011, this agrotourist destination promises an educational journey into the life cycles of dragon fruits. The farm boasts various types of oBus adventures through heritage, nature and art █ BY HAZIQUE ZAIRILL HL Dragon Fruit Eco Farm offers a unique and tasty dragon fruit farm experience. dragon fruit and holds a Malaysia Book of Records title for having the largest dragon fruit-shaped structure in the country. The farm’s restaurant is a culinary delight, offering a diverse menu that includes the creatively crafted nasi lemak buah naga. Infused with dragon fruit seeds, the rice takes on a distinct reddish hue, providing a visual and gastronomic feast. Do not miss the jumbo dragon bun, topped with chicken curry, a must-try for culinary enthusiasts seeking a unique and flavourful experience. For those craving adventure on the water, Jeti Sirip Biru is the go-to destination for both fishing enthusiasts and leisure seekers. Whether you wish to rent a raft house, embark on a deep-sea fishing expedition or enjoy a scenic river cruise, the options are endless. Visitors can also embark on ATV rides available in Sepang. Chop Guan Kee Coffee Shop was established in 1943. Fishing enthusiasts can even opt for a river cruise package, which includes fishing opportunies at the fish breeding centre. The pier offers a variety of packages, including the affordable rental of a boat for four people at RM150. Whether you are an avid angler or simply seeking leisure by the water, Jeti Sirip Biru promises an array of experiences to suit every preference. Hidden in the charming town of Sungai Pelek is Chop Guan Kee, one of Selangor’s best-kept coffee roasteries. This timeless coffee shop, open since its inception and housed in a beautiful wooden structure, is a haven for coffee enthusiasts eager to savour a taste of history and tradition. Founded by Teo Hoh Hwa upon arriving from China, the shop’s current owner, Teo Yu Yin, continues the legacy, preserving the essence of Kedai Kopi Chop Guan Kee. Indulge in their signature Nanyang milk coffee, served over ice, for a refreshing experience that blends tradition and innovation perfectly. For a unique journey through history, tradition and exceptional coffee, Chop Guan Kee is a mustvisit destination, easily accessible with the HoHo Selangor bus. Travelling by bus introduces a fresh and exciting way to explore Sepang. Hopping on and off at each destination allows you to savour the diverse attractions at your own pace. Whether you are an art enthusiast, a culinary explorer, a nature lover or a history buff, Sepang’s hidden gems eagerly await discovery with the HoHo bus service. Get ready for an adventure that promises not only convenience and excitement but also an unforgettable journey through the heart of Selangor. Let the HoHo bus be your mode of transport as you traverse the vibrant landscapes, uncovering the unique charm of Sepang that often goes unnoticed. Embrace the unexpected, make discoveries and create lasting memories as you embark on this thrilling travel escapade through one of Selangor’s many captivating wonders.
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 23 I N the heart of Southeast Asia, where the echoes of dense rainforests meet the crescendo of towering peaks and the symphony of vibrant coastlines, Malaysia emerges as a birder’s paradise. The country’s lush landscapes, spanning Peninsular Malaysia, Sabah and Sarawak, serve as a thrilling canvas for birdwatching enthusiasts seeking the extraordinary. With over 800 species soaring through its skies, including unique endemic breeds, Malaysia is a tantalising adventure awaiting discovery. Malaysia’s avian amusement park Malaysia’s avian spectacle unfolds against a backdrop of diverse ecosystems, from the hot mangroves and tropical rainforests to the misty highlands. This kaleidoscope of habitats hosts an impressive array of bird species, transforming Malaysia into a living, breathing aviary. Among the feathered stars are resplendent hornbills, iridescent kingfishers and elusive pittas, each contributing to the symphony of nature. Uncovering nature’s secrets The gateway to Malaysia’s avian marvels lies in Peninsular Malaysia, where the Taman Negara National Park reigns supreme. This ancient rainforest, one of the world’s oldest ecosystems, is a birder’s utopia. Trails wind through the foliage, leading birdwatchers to the elusive Malaysian rail-babbler and the exotic red-bearded bee-eater, creating an atmosphere of suspense and discovery. Fraser’s Hill, a highland retreat, provides a refreshing escape for enthusiasts yearning for cooler climates. Traverse its labyrinthine trails to encounter the regal Malaysian Trogon and the vibrant Sultan Tit. The annual Fraser’s Hill International Bird Race, a thrilling event, elevates birdwatching to a competitive spectacle, adding an adrenaline rush to the joy of spotting rare species. Sabah, Borneo’s avian stage For an immersive avian adventure, birders turn their gaze to Sabah, Borneo’s treasure trove. The Danum Valley Conservation Area, a haven for biodiversity, immerses enthusiasts in a sensory overload of sights and sounds. The enigmatic Bornean bristlehead and the secretive blueheaded pitta make their homes here, captivating observers with their rare beauty. Ascending to the summit of Mount Kinabalu is not only a physical feat but a journey into the realm of montane avian wonders. The Kinabalu Friendly Warbler and the resplendent Whitehead’s Trogon reveal themselves in different elevations, offering a c i n e m a t i c e x p e r i e n c e against the backdrop of Borneo’s highest peak. Adding to Sabah’s allure are its endemic species, found nowhere else on earth. The Bornean falconet, with its diminutive size and striking appearance and the Whitehead’s Spiderhunter, with its long, curved bill and iridescent plumage, are treasures exclusive to the landscapes of Sabah. Sarawak’s captivating song of wings Sarawak, with its untamed landscapes, beckons birdwatchers to delve into its avian wonders. Bako National Park is a mesmerising starting point, promising a spectacle of diversity within its varied ecosystems. The rare Bornean banded pitta and the mystical oriental bay owl play hide-and-seek amid the foliage, adding an air of mystery to the adventure. Venturing into Gunung Mulu National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site, is akin to stepping into an otherworldly land. Limestone karst formations and vast cave systems become the stage for birding delights, with the Bornean barbet and the elusive dulit frogmouth stealing the spotlight. The park’s dramatic setting elevates the birdwatching experience to a sensory journey through time and nature. Sarawak’s endemic species add an extra layer of excitement to the birding adventure. The Bornean peacock-pheasant, a vividly coloured and elusive bird and the Bornean wren-babbler, a tiny and cryptic species, are among the rare gems awaiting discovery in Sarawak’s untamed wilderness. Conservation in flight As the allure of birdwatching grows, so does the responsibility to ensure its sustainability. Conservation efforts in Malaysia focus on preserving crucial habitats and raising awareness about the necessity of protecting the country’s diverse avian species. Birdwatchers are encouraged to be ambassadors for conservation, Malaysian rail-babler - PIC BY FRANCESCO VERONESI minimising disturbances to wildlife Red-bearded bee-eater – 123RF Bornean falconet, endemic to Borneo, is the smallest species of falcon. - PIC BY CHEONGWEEI GAN Dulit frogmouth, also endemic to Borneo. – PIC BY JJ HARRISON Oriental bay owl – JJ HARRISON Bornean banded pitta – JJ HARRISON Malaysia’s feathered gems oExploring bird species across regions █ BYACE EMERSON and actively supporting local initiatives. In the closing act of a day spent birdwatching in Malaysia, the sun dips below the horizon, leaving the sky painted in hues that mirror the vibrant plumage of the day’s avian discoveries. Malaysia’s untamed landscapes, from the ancient rainforests of Taman Negara to the wild frontiers of Sabah and Sarawak, weave a narrative of enchantment for those who seek it. The echoes of calls, the iridescence of feathers and the thrill of spotting rare species become indelible memories, etching the magic of Malaysia’s winged inhabitants deep into the hearts of those who have ventured into this avian paradise. The endemic birds, exclusive to each region, further enrich the tapestry of Malaysia’s avian wonderland, making it a destination that beckons birders to return time and again. Bornean bristlehead - FB/STICKY RICE TRAVEL
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 24 /thesuntelegram FOLLOW ON TELEGRAM Malaysian Paper Three decades later I T has been 30 years since the creation of The Silence of the Lambs and Anthony Hopkins, now 86, takes a moment to reflect on his iconic portrayal of Hannibal Lecter, a character he considers “one of the best parts I’ve ever read.” The veteran actor, who earned his first Best Actor Oscar for bringing the psychiatrist and psychotic cannibal to life in the 1991 film, admits that he has not watched the movie in years. Nevertheless, the memories of receiving the script during his time performing in M Butterfly in London remain vivid. Recalling the moment his agent handed him the script, Hopkins initially thought it might be a children’s story Hopkins believes Hannibal Lecter in The Silence of the Lambs is one of the best roles he has ever played. - PIC BY KEN REGAN/ORION/KOBAL/SHUTTERSTOCK oHopkins reflects on the legacy of Hannibal Lecter █ BYYASMIN ZULRAEZ Revived once again from amber UNIVERSAL Pictures is secretly working on reviving the Jurassic Park franchise, Variety’s sources have claimed. Penned by screenwriter David Koepp, the project is well into its development phase and the script has been well liked by executives enough that the studio is looking at a possible 2025 release. Koepp co-wrote the original Jurassic Park from 1993, along with the scripts for the first Mission: Impossible, the first Spider-Man in 2002 and last year’s Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny. According to Variety, there is no word on what the film will be about. While it will retain the Jurassic World title, the film will launch a “new Jurassic era” with a new storyline. This could mean that it will be separate from the Jurassic World trilogy, which was helmed by Chris Pratt and Bryce Dallas Howard. In other words, they may not return and this extends to the Jurassic Park actors Sam Neill, Laura Dern and Jeff Goldblum. The trio last appeared in Jurassic World Dominion. At the time of writing, there is no director attached to the project. - BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR The previous Jurassic World trilogy made over RM18 billion at the global box office. - UNIVERSAL PICTURES Return of Hedwig and the Angry Inch REPRISING their roles as the iconic Hedwig in the much-acclaimed musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch are Jeon Dong-suk , Cho Jung-seok and Yoo Yeon-seok, marking the 14th season of this enduring production that first premiered in South Korea in 2005. Renowned for its 13-season legacy, the musical unfolds the journey of Hedwig Robinson, an East German rock star navigating a path to self-discovery and purpose through music. This season promises a heightened experience, embracing innovative stage elements such as dynamic set designs, enhanced visualisations and live streaming during performances. A notable return is the revival of the lively interaction between the performers and the audience, a distinctive feature that was absent in the previous season due to the pandemic. Dong-suk will also be embodying the role of Hedwig. Dong-suk, returning after an eight-year hiatus, brings with him a wealth of experience, having portrayed Hedwig since 2006. His character interpretation, expressive prowess and agility have consistently captivated audiences. Yeonseok, returning after seven years, was previously impressed with his meticulous acting and exceptional singing in 2017. Expressing both nervousness and excitement, he anticipates portraying a more mature and diverse Hedwig this time. Hedwig and the Angry Inch, with the book written by John Cameron Mitchell and music and lyrics by Stephen Trask, first premiered off-Broadway in 1998, then played on the West End in 2000 and Broadway in 2014. Some of its accolades include the Obie Award, the Outer Critics Circle Award for Outstanding OffBroadway Musical and the Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical. It has been adapted into a movie of the same title, released in 2001, and starring musical director Mitchell in the titular role along with actors Andrea Martin, Michael Pitt and Miriam Shor. The musical was first staged in South Korea in 2005. It most recently opened in 2021 and the upcoming 2024 production marks its 14th run in Seoul. The musical is scheduled to run from March 22 to June 23 at the Charlotte Theatre in Lotte World, Seoul. This season of Hedwig and the Angry Inch is sure to present an amazing theatrical experience for both returning fans and newcomers alike. - BY THASHINE SELVAKUMARAN The musical has consistently enjoyed widespread popularity since its first performance in South Korea in 2005. - SOOMPI due to the misleading title. “I sat in the dressing room in the theatre, read through the first scene of Lecter and said, ‘Is this an offer?’” So impressed was Hopkins that he decided “I’m not going to read anymore because this is one of the best parts I’ve ever read.” Director Jonathan Demme, who had Hopkins in mind for the role, flew from New York to London to witness his performance in M Butterfly. After the show, the two had dinner and Hopkins, intrigued, queried Demme on the casting choice. With humour, the director responded – “Why? Have you got problems?” Hopkins persisted, asking – “Why did you cast me?” The ensuing conversation solidified Hopkins’s understanding of Lecter’s character. In The Silence of the Lambs, Hopkins’s character, confined in a facility for the criminally insane, engages with FBI trainee Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster) in her pursuit of Buffalo Bill. Despite their stark differences, a peculiar connection and mutual respect develop between them. Hopkins praises Foster, describing her as “lovely” and commending her practical and laidback approach on set. Transitioning from the iconic role of Lecter to his current portrayal of Sigmund Freud in Freud’s Last Session, Hopkins speaks about his instinctual grasp of enigmatic characters. Describing Freud as “the man at the top of the stairs who’s not there,” he continues to delve into the intricacies of understanding such roles. Reflecting on his experience, Hopkins appreciates the enduring impact of Lecter and relishes the joy of working with Foster. For him, the essence of Foster lies in her simplicity, lack of entourage and practical, cool demeanour on set. Moviegoers will undoubtedly be intrigued by Hopkins’s take on the famed psychiatrist. After all, this will not be the first time he has portrayed such a complex character.
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 25 Foster’s praise AFTER spending decades in the film industry, Jodie Foster is finally seeing Hollywood move forward from archaic views when it comes to trusting female filmmakers more, particularly with the success of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie last year. “I’ve had the beauty of being able to be in the business since the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and so on. The progression or bettering of our audiences translates into a kind of new thinking about who our marginalised voices are,” Foster told Variety. She further explains that in the “old days”, women were seen as a risk, though she is not able to ascertain why exactly it was that way. That perception has shifted, according to Foster (right) says Hollywood is moving towards trusting female filmmakers more. - HBO oHollywood’s empowerment through Gerwig’s Barbie █ BY MARK MATHEN VICTOR Framing love (From left) Kareena and Saif’s love story unveiled. - PICS FROM KAREENA’S INSTAGRAM Sushant’s enduring legacy IT has been four years since the untimely demise of the beloved actor, Sushant Singh Rajput, who left a lasting impact on the hearts of his fans. On Jan 21, admirers took to social Fans reflect on Sushant’s birthday, four years on. - IMDB BOLLYWOOD photographer Dabboo Ratnani recently shared a fascinating revelation about the beginning of Saif Ali Khan and Kareena Kapoor’s love story. Their initial encounter occurred during a 2005 photoshoot, raising eyebrows as Saif’s then-girlfriend, Rosa Catalano, was not thrilled about the couple’s portrayal. Despite this, Ratnani captured their undeniable chemistry, resulting in captivating images for a magazine cover. At the time, Saif was dating Rosa and Kareena was in a relationship with Shahid Kapoor. However, destiny had other plans and the two found love on the sets of Tashan in 2008. They eventually tied the knot in 2012, welcoming sons Taimur Ali Khan in 2016 and Jehangir Ali Khan in 2021, named after Mughal emperors. Saif, previously married to Amrita Singh, has two children, Sara and Ibrahim. Saif’s lineage includes his father, Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi, a former captain of the Indian cricket team. Kareena, part of the iconic Kapoor family, is the granddaughter of legendary actor Raj Kapoor, adding rich layers to their Bollywood love story. - BY S. TAMARAI CHELVI the actress. “With a big success like Barbie, they gave Gerwig, who had made two mostly independent films, the keys to the kingdom and said ‘We’re going to give you our most important child’ and all the money to support it. That’s new for women. I hope that continues.” Noting that 2023 saw more representation through film and television, it was not enough. Drawing an example with Native Americans, Foster says representation of community alone was not enough if the stories are not centred around them. In a way, Foster is right. One of last year’s biggest and longest films was Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon. The film focused on the murders of the Native American Osage women by greedy white men. Though it heavily featured Natives, the narrative was from a third-person point of view. This was after Scorcese rehauled the original script, which was written from the perspective of the white FBI agents that were sent to investigate the alarming deaths. “The person telling the story wasn’t the point of view. My show True Detective takes us to the next level of talking about Native issues from a Native perspective.” Foster is currently leading the excellent fourth season of HBO’s True Detective, titled True Detective: Night Country. The other lead is Kali Reis, a Native American, with the season focusing on Foster and Reis’ characters investigating the murder mystery of an Indigenous Alaskan woman. other commercial blockbusters like Dil Bechara, Kedarnath and Sonchiriya. However, the news of his sudden death on June 14, 2020, at the age of 34, sent shockwaves through his devoted fanbase. Found hanging in his Bandra home, his death was officially declared a suicide, but claims of a murder conspiracy persisted, fuelled by reported injury marks discovered during the post-mortem. Even after four years, Sushant’s fans continue to seek justice for the charismatic actor. The circumstances surrounding his death and the subsequent investigations have left lingering questions in the minds of many. Sushant’s career, initially on a soaring trajectory, took an unexpected turn as he lost coveted roles to actors from film dynasty families. Fans accused certain stars of sabotaging his career, alleging that he had missed out on seven pivotal characters. This led to the initiation of a “boycott Bollywood” campaign on social media, directed at major film production houses and influential stars. In the middle of these ongoing demands for justice and revelations about the alleged industry dynamics, Sushant’s sister, Shweta Singh Kirti, residing in the US, has released a book titled Pain: A Portal to Enlightenment. The book delves into her personal pain and shock upon learning about her brother’s demise in 2020, a challenging period coinciding with the height of the Covid-19 pandemic. As fans continue to remember Sushant on his 38th birthday, the actor’s life and legacy remain a subject of reflection, celebration and an ongoing quest for answers. - BY S. TAMARAI CHELVI media to remember him at what would have been his 38th birthday celebration, a poignant moment that reinforced the enduring legacy of the talented actor. Hailing from a simple middleclass background, Sushant made his debut in the 2013 film Kai Po Che, which proved to be a significant success. Praised for his acting prowess, he swiftly ascended to stardom, taking on complex roles and turning them into triumphs. Among his iconic performances was the titular role in MS Dhoni: An Untold Story, along with
LYFE LYFE TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 26 READ OUR HERE /thesun Malaysian Paper Altered tracks surge on streaming platforms RECENT revelations have brought to light a concerning trend within the music streaming industry – the presence of over a million tracks categorised as “manipulated”. These manipulated tracks involve altered versions of songs, featuring changes such as speed adjustments, tempo variations and other modifications. This disconcerting phenomenon has gained significant prevalence across a spectrum of streaming platforms, raising questions about copyright violations and the fair compensation of artists. The comprehensive study that uncovered this trend was conducted by Pex, a tech company specialising in tracking and analysing copyrighted content on digital services. The data utilised for this study was collected in November 2023 and sheds light on the extensive number of manipulated tracks across popular platforms like Spotify, Apple Music and Tidal. Noteworthy instances include a sped-up rendition of Lady Gaga’s Bloody Mary, amassing a staggering 25 million streams and a modified version of Childish Gambino’s Heartbeat with 19 million streams. These examples underscore the pervasive nature of manipulated content circulating on major streaming platforms. What adds to the gravity of the situation is that these manipulated tracks often lack the necessary legal licensing, constituting a violation of copyright. As a result, the original artists behind these modified versions are deprived of the rightful royalties for the streams generated by their songs. Pex CEO Rasty Turek acknowledged the existence of a substantial audience that enjoys manipulated content, such as Nightcore mixes. He emphasised the legitimacy of this movement, stating that those who appreciate this kind of music should have access to it. However, Turek argued that the responsibility for proper attribution falls more on the streaming platforms and services hosting the content than on the artists themselves. While acknowledging the legitimate demand for manipulated content, Turek stressed the need for platforms to actively ensure proper attribution, relieving artists from the burden of personally seeking out instances of copyright infringement. This shift in responsibility is crucial to maintaining the integrity of the music industry and ensuring that artists receive due credit and compensation for their work. In response to the overwhelming influx of songs uploaded to its platform, Spotify has taken proactive steps to address the issue and implement changes in royalty allocation. Reports indicate that approximately a quarter of the music available on streaming services, including Spotify, goes unheard. To address this challenge, Spotify has introduced a policy shift, requiring songs to accumulate a minimum of 1,000 streams before becoming eligible to earn any royalties. This move aims to prioritise and reward songs that genuinely resonate with listeners, fostering a fairer compensation structure within the streaming ecosystem. Songs that have been sped up or slowed down are considered “manipulated”. – PEXELS. █ BYHAZIQUE ZAIRILL Star-studded affair THE grand consecration of the Ram Mandir or Pran Pratishtha, in Ayodhya on Jan 22 was a spectacle of star-studded brilliance broadcast live across India. Among the distinguished attendees were Bollywood power couples Vicky Kaushal and Katrina Kaif, as well as Ranbir Kapoor and Alia Bhatt, adding a touch of glamour to the sacred ceremony. The spotlight also shone on veteran actors Amitabh Bachchan and Abhishek Bachchan, along with Madhuri Dixit and her husband Sri Ram Nene. Indian cinema legend Rajnikanth and Telugu actors Chiranjeevi and Ram Charan graced the event with their presence, adding to the aura of cultural significance. Renowned filmmakers Madhur Bandarkar, Raju Hirani and Rohit Shetty, alongside actor Ayushmann Khurrana, were accorded special seats, capturing the essence of the sacred occasion through photographs and selfies, immortalising a momentous day in Ayodhya’s history. Singers Shankar Mahadevan and Sonu Nigam contributed a melodic touch to the proceedings with their soulful performances, resonating with the spiritual atmosphere. However, it was Kangana Ranaut who stole the limelight with her active participation in a cleanliness drive at the Hanuman Garhi Temple. Sweeping the floor with devotion, Ranaut showcased her commitment to the sacred grounds, embodying the spirit of the occasion. The self-professed devotee of Lord Ram graced the event in an ornate orange, red and white saree adorned with gold embroidery and emerald jewelry. Kangana’s attire symbolised both elegance and reverence, perfectly reflecting the solemnity of the occasion. At the heart of the ceremony was the unveiling of the 51-inch-tall Ram Lalla statue, a moment that held immense significance. Adorned with gold jewellery and flowers, the statue depicted a five-year-old Lord Ram standing on a lotus flower. This representation symbolises the divine connection to Ayodhya, the birthplace of Lord Ram, encapsulating the cultural and religious essence of the entire event. The star-studded gathering, infused with cultural luminaries and adorned with performances and heartfelt participation, turned the consecration of the Ram Mandir into a momentous and unforgettable celebration. As the sacred statue of Ram Lalla was unveiled to the public, the grandeur of the ceremony echoed the profound connection that Ayodhya shares with Lord Ram, marking a historic chapter in the spiritual and cultural legacy of India. Kanagana posing at the Ram Mandir, Ayodhya. - PICS FROM KANAGANA RANAUT INSTAGRAM █ BYS.TAMARAI CHELVI oRecent study found over a million modified songs, raising concerns about copyright infringement
322 Notices NOTICE OF APPLICATION FOR VOLUNTARY WINDING UP OF LIMITED LIABILITY PARTNERSHIP (Section 50(4)(a) of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012) Notice is hereby given that NUOVO SOLUTION PLT (No. PLT 201404001845 (LLP0003282-LGN) will be making an application to the Registrar of Limited Liability Partnerships for a declaration of dissolution pursuant to section 50(2) of the Limited Liability Partnerships Act 2012 within seven (7) days after the publication of this notice. Any partner or creditor of the LLP desiring to object to the application may do so in writing to the Companies Commission of Malaysia within thirty (30) days from the date of this notice. 322 Notices If you feel you have what it takes, to join us in the interesting media industry, send your resume (together with a photo of you) via email to [email protected] You can call us at +603 7784 6688 theSun is published by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd Lot 6, Level 4, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. MARKETING EXECUTIVE Responsibilities 1. Handle both local & outstation Agents and Vendors. 2. Handle sales of newspaper-corporate sales e.g.: Hospital, Hotels, etc. 3. Actively engage in outbound sales activities to acquire new newspaper subscribers. Requirements 1. Minimum Diploma in Business, Marketing, Communications, or related field with at least 2 years of experience. 2. Proven experience in sales, preferably in the media or publishing industry would be an advantage 3. Ability to work independently and as part of a team. 4. Excellent selling, communication and negotiation skills. Malaysian Paper MEDIA SALES REPRESENTATIVE / AGENT (FREELANCE) Requirements 1. Minimum 1 year sales experience in newspaper bulk sales and digital advertising 2. Attractice commision package and incentive 3. Able to start immediately 4. Central, Nothern, Southern, East Coast and Sabah/Sarawak KIT-JO HOLDINGS SENDIRIAN BERHAD 199601040273 (412626-A) (Members’ Voluntary Winding-Up) NOTICE OF FINAL MEETING NOTICE is hereby given to all the members of KIT-JO HOLDINGS SENDIRIAN BERHAD (In Liquidation) that a Final Meeting of the members is to be held at No. 13-1 Jalan Mutiara Melaka 6, Batu Berendam, 75350 Melaka, on the 29th day of February 2024 at 11.00 a.m. to adopt the following:- 1. The Final Report by the Liquidator on the affairs of the liquidation. 2. The Statement of Receipts and Payments of the liquidation. 3. That the books and records of the company be destroyed after three months of the termination of the liquidation. Dated this 30th day of January 2024. CHONG TOONG MING Liquidator T. M. CHONG & COMPANY PLT No. 13-1 Jalan Mutiara Melaka 6 Batu Berendam 75350 Melaka. 302 Jobs 322 Notices CALL TO PLACE CLASSIFIED ADS MS. SHOBA / MS. BALQISH T 03 7784 8888 F 03 7784 4424 SCAN ME TUESDAY JAN 30, 2024
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 28 DALAM MAHKAMAH TINGGI MALAYA DI PULAU PINANG PENGGULUNGAN SYARIKAT NO. PA-28NCC-130-11/2023 Dalam perkara Seksyen 465(1) (e) dan Seksyen 466 (1) (a) Akta SyarikatSyarikat 2016 Dan Dalam Perkara Dermaster Wellness (M) Sdn. Bhd. (No. Syarikat: 201001000740 (885312-V) Dan Dalam Perkara Kaedah-Kaedah (Penggulungan) Syarikat-Syarikat 1972 Antara Mtrustee Berhad (No. Syarikat : 198701004362 (163032-V)) (Sebagai Pemegang Amanah Untuk “Capitaland Malaysia Mall Trust”) …Pempetisyen Dan Dermaster Wellness (M) Sdn. Bhd. (No. Syarikat : 201001000740 (885312-V)) …Responden PENGIKLANAN PETISYEN Notis kini diberi bahawa suatu Petisyen untuk penggulungan syarikat Dermaster Wellness (M) Sdn. Bhd. (No. Syarikat: 201001000740 (885312-V) oleh Mahkamah Tinggi telah dikemukakan pada 17/11/2023 oleh Mtrustee Berhad (No. Syarikat: 198701004362 (163032- V) yang beralamat di 170-06-01, Plaza Gurney, Persiaran Gurney, 10250 Pulau Pinang dan bahawa Petisyen tersebut telah diarah untuk didengar dihadapan Mahkamah yang bersidang di Pulau Pinang pada pukul 9.00 pagi, pada 15 Mac 2024 dan sesiapa pemiutang atau penyumbang kepada syarikat tersebut yang berminat untuk menyokong atau membangkang terhadap mana-mana Perintah yang dibuat di atas Petisyen tersebut boleh menghadiri pada masa Pendengaran dengan sendiri atau melalui Peguamcaranya untuk tujuan ini; dan sesalinan Petisyen akan diberi kepada sesiapa Pemiutang atau Penyumbang kepada Syarikat tersebut yang memohon kepada penandatangan seperti dibawah dengan bayaran yang ditetapkan. Alamat Pempetisyen adalah di 170- 06-01, Plaza Gurney, Persiaran Gurney, 10250 Pulau Pinang. Peguamcara bagi Pempetisyen adalah Tetuan San Law Chambers yang mana alamat untuk penyampaiannya adalah di Unit 6.2, Tingkat 6, Wisma Leader, No. 8, Jalan Larut, 10050 Pulau Pinang. Ditandatangani …………………………….…… Peguamcara untuk Pempetisyen Nota: Sesiapa yang ingin menghadiri pada pendengaran Petisyen tersebut mestilah menyampaikan ke atas atau kirim melalui pos kepada peguamcara yang dinamakan diatas satu notis bertulis akan tujuan untuk berbuat demikian. Notis ini mesti menyatakan nama dan alamat orang itu atau, jikalau sebuah firma, nama dan alamat firma, atau peguamcara mereka (jika ada) dan mesti disampaikan atau jika dikirim melalui pos hendaklah dalam masa yang memadai sampai kepada yang dinamakan di atas tidak lewat daripada pukul 12 tengahari pada 14/3/2024 (hari sebelum hari ditetapkan untuk pendengaran Petisyen). (Ruj. : DLMS/DL/063/19/Awin)/Rse. IN THE MATTER OF THE COMPANIES ACT 2016 AND IN THE MATTER OF SAAP HOLDINGS SDN. BHD. [Co. No. 201801021741 (1283760-W)] (In Members’ Voluntary Liquidation) Notice is hereby given pursuant to Section 459(2) of the Companies Act, 2016 that the Final Meeting of the Members of the abovenamed Company will be held at Suite 12B23, Level 12B, Wisma Zelan, No. 1 Jalan Tasik Permaisuri 2, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, 56000 Kuala Lumpur on the 4 March 2024 at 11.00 a.m. for the following purposes: (1) To receive the Liquidator’s Statement of Accounts showing how the winding-up has been conducted and the assets of the Company disposed off and to hear any explanations that may be given by the Liquidator. (2) To determine the manner in which the books, accounts and documents of the Company and of the Liquidator shall be disposed off. SURDASS @ VIPIN KUMAR Liquidator Dated : 30 January 2024 Kuala Lumpur Note: A member of the Company entitled to attend and vote at the meeting is entitled to appoint a proxy to attend and vote in his stead. A proxy need not be a member of the Company. The instument appointing a proxy must be deposited at the Liquidator’s office not less than 48 hours before the time appointed for holding the meeting. 322 Notices Start of a new era Tennis needs the next generation, says Grand Slam champion Sinner J ANNIK SINNER was not about to announce the end of the “Big Three” after his breakthrough Grand Slam triumph at the Australian Open but the 22-year-old Italian does believe tennis needs a fresh generation of champions. His five-set victory over Daniil Medvedev on Sunday made him the first Melbourne Park winner in 10 years not named Novak Djokovic, Rafa Nadal or Roger Federer – the trio of multiple champions who have dominated tennis for two decades. Djokovic’s incredible success into his midthirties has delayed the decline of the “Big Three” but with Federer now retired and Nadal looking set to join him this year, a huge gap is opening up at the top of the game. With his Melbourne triumph, Sinner has joined 20-year-old Carlos Alcaraz in the Grand Slam winners’ club, spearheading a clutch of players of a similar age coming through. “It’s quite unpredictable what’s coming in the future but still it’s nice to be part of this generation,” Sinner said as he was photographed with his trophy in Melbourne’s Botanical Gardens yesterday. “I think the next generation is something that this sport needs and it’s also a little bit of a gamechanger.” Sinner was the youngest Australian Open men’s champion since Djokovic won the first of his 10 Melbourne Park titles in 2008 and even though he beat the 24-times Grand S l a m champion in the semifinals, the Italian was not i n v i t i n g comparisons. “He is a different league,” he said. “I’m just happy I have this trophy for this year and then we see what’s coming. “There is stillS a lot of work to do but I will enjoy my process and then we see what I can achieve in the future.” As impressive as the clean hitting that has taken Sinner into the elite of men’s tennis was his cool demeanour on court on Sunday as he withstood an early barrage from Medvedev before rallying from two sets down to clinch the title. Although he fell to the Rod Laver Arena court after converting championship point, there was no huge outpouring of emotions as Sinner celebrated the biggest victory of his career. “There were so many emotions in my head and the hard work and the sacrifices I’ve done throughout my career,” he explained. “Sharing this moment with my team was maybe the best feeling I’ve had until now. “It’s great emotions, I was just happy, yesterday I still maybe couldn’t believe and now I’m starting to realise it, so it’s a great feeling.” Sinner said he celebrated his dream start to the new season in understated fashion but said it would be straight back to work as he looked to build on his breakthrough. “Obviously winning the tournament is something unbelievable,” he said. “I’m really happy how I performed here and let’s see what’s coming in the future.” – Reuters Korda Drive-s On to beat Ko in playoff REIGNING Olympic champion Nelly Korda parred the second playoff hole to defeat New Zealand’s Lydia Ko and win the Drive On Championship yesterday for her ninth career LPGA title. World No. 4 Korda, a 25-year-old hometown hero, closed her round eagle-birdie for the second consecutive day to force a playoff, then outlasted Ko to deny the Seoulborn Kiwi her second victory in as many weeks. “What a day,” Korda said. “I seem to always make it very dramatic and interesting. There’s no better feeling than to do it in front of a home crowd. “Even when I was down, they were so positive and keeping me in it. It was such a grind out there, so back and forth. I never really got anything going. I just can’t even believe it.” Korda and Ko each finished 72 holes on 11-under 273 at Bradenton Country Club. Ko fired a two-under 69 in the final round while Korda shot 73. American Megan Khang was third on 276. Korda clung to a one-stroke lead after a bogey at 14, then sent her tee shot into water at the par-3 15th and made double bogey. Ko eagled the par-5 17th and Korda made another bogey at 16 to fall three adrift and even Korda figured she was beaten. “I honestly thought the tournament was over going into 17 and I just kind of gave myself a chance,” Korda said. “I knew if I rolled that eagle in I had to birdie the last hole.” – AFP DANIIL MEDVEDEV has warned Novak Djokovic that he and Jannik Sinner are coming for his spot at the top of the ATP world rankings. Djokovic retained his status as the world No. 1 in the wake of the Australian Open, despite crashing out against eventual champion Sinner in the semifinals. Medvedev and Sinner served up an all-time classic on Sunday. It was another dose of heartbreak for Medvedev, who lost the Australian Open final from two sets up for the second time in three years, and euphoria for Sinner, who snatched victory from the jaws of defeat to clinch the first Grand Slam of his career. Despite the Italian establishing himself among tennis’ big hitters, he will stay at No. 4 in the world rankings. Medvedev could have jumped up to second with a win in the final, but defeat leaves him third, behind Carlos Alcaraz in second and Djokovic in first. Speaking after his agonising five-set loss on Rod Laver Arena, Medvedev warned Djokovic that Sinner absolutely has what it takes to knock him off his perch. “In this tournament (Sinner) was the best player in the world, and that’s why he won this slam,” stated the Russian. “But we never know what happens next. If he continues playing like this, continues winning tournaments like this, he’s going to be No. 1 in the world at one moment. “We never know what can happen. I think tennis is a beautiful sport because you cannot look into the future. If he stays healthy and plays like he played this tournament, one moment he’s going to be No 1. Two months, in one year, in two years. “But, you know, many players went through different moments in their seasons and careers, so let’s see how Jannik handles everything that is going to happen. “I have also put myself in a good position. I guess I would be No. 2 in the race. I’ll try my best to be somewhere there close by also.” – Express Newspapers Medvedev fires warning to Djokovic Stokes hails ‘greatest’ Test win SKIPPER Ben Stokes yesterday said England’s come-from-behind win over India by 28 runs in the opening Test in Hyderabad was his “greatest” as captain. The tourists overcame a stiff challenge from the hosts to get past a deficit of 190 runs at the start of their second innings with a masterful 196 from Ollie Pope. England set India a victory target of 231 and bowled out the hosts for 202 in the final over on day four, with debutant left-arm spinner Tom Hartley returning figures of 7-62. “We have had a lot of fantastic moments as a team, great victories but given where we are, and who are playing, I think it’s our greatest triumph since I have been captain,” Stokes told TNT Sports. “For Tom Hartley to get nine wickets on debut, and Ollie Pope to get a big hundred… is incredible. But everyone contributed.” India have not suffered a home Test series defeat since England’s triumph in 2012. “Considering where we are and who we (were) playing against, the position we found ourselves going into our second innings of batting, just sitting here now and say we’re 1- 0 up, it’s a big reason as to why I feel this is our best victory since I’ve been captain,” Stokes added. ‘Wake-up call for India’ ENGLAND’S attacking “Bazball” style of play trumped India at home in the first Test but pundits and cricketers yesterday said the hosts remain favourites in the five-match series. England’s fearless “Bazball” brand of play devised by coach Brendon McCullum and skipper Ben Stokes has brought the team 14 victories in 19 Tests. Bazball: Believe the hype, a headline in the Indian Express daily read. It was India’s fourth loss in their last 47 Tests at home since 2013 – and their first-ever after leading by 190 runs in the first innings of a home game. “It’s just a wake-up call for India,” former England captain Nasser Hussain told Sky Sports. “England have shown that they’re not a side to be messed with,” he added. “This is a confident side; they have great self-belief in the way they are playing the game. They are fully behind their captain. They are fully behind their coach.” Hurt drove Brisbane miracle, says Windies skipper Brathwaite SKIPPER Kraigg Brathwaite credited injured pride for West Indies’ extraordinary upset of Australia in Brisbane on Sunday and said the Caribbean islanders needed more Test cricket if they were to continue their revival. West Indies were once the most feared team in the Test game but expectations have lowered over years of decline, and Brathwaite’s touring squad were given little chance of success when they arrived in Australia to play the World Test Championship winners. Those expectations were lowered still after a 10-wicket mauling in the first Test in Adelaide but, spearheaded by young quick Shamar Joseph, they staged a remarkable turnaround to beat their hosts by eight runs in a Gabba thriller on Sunday. Brathwaite said comments by former Australian pace bowler Rodney Hogg had cut particularly deep. “Rodney Hogg said we were pathetic and hopeless, so that was our motivation. I want to ask him: ‘Are these muscles big enough for you?’” he retorted in the post-match ceremony on Sunday. “We wanted to let him know that we heard him,” Brathwaite added in his news conference. “We planned well as a group, but we saw his words and that was extra motivation for us as well. “Test match cricket is never easy… when you have a guy disrespecting West Indies, and us players that are playing, it is hurtful.” INSIDE EDGE Sinner
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 29 Girona back on top ... as Atletico move above Barcelona after comfortable Valencia win SHOCK Spanish title challengers Girona returned to the top of La Liga with a 1-0 at Celta Vigo yesterday. Atletico Madrid climbed third, above struggling champions Barcelona on goal difference, with a comfortable 2-0 win at home against Valencia. Michel Sanchez’s Girona moved one point clear of Real Madrid, who beat Las Palmas on Saturday, although the Catalan team have played one more match. Portu finished well in the 20th minute to send Girona ahead in a match they largely dominated but could not make safe by finding a second goal. Rafa Benitez’s Celta sit two points above the relegation zone in 17th place. Girona, in the top flight for only the fourth season in their history, continue to battle with Spain’s giants for La Liga. “We knew we had to take advantage of the chances we had, in the first half we made a lot of chances to score, they had some too,” said Girona winger Portu. “At this stage of the league the important thing is three points and competing.” Girona players and staff have been reluctant to admit the team is in contention to win the title. “The main thing for us is that we shouldn’t be thinking too far ahead, that would be a mistake,” added Portu. “We know that we are leaving teams behind us to get into the European places, we have to be realistic, and that’s our objective.” On a rough pitch at Celta’s Balaidos stadium, Girona took the initiative from the start. “We had a lot of personality to keep the ball in conditions that were difficult to play on,” said Girona coach Michel. “They had chances, as did we, but I think we were fair winners.” Champions Barcelona, fourth, lost 5-3 at home against Villarreal on Saturday, after which coach Xavi Hernandez said he would leave the club in June. Atletico eased above them with Samuel Lino and Memphis Depay on target against Valencia, eighth. “We controlled the game very well as a whole,” said satisfied Atletico coach Diego Simeone. Reinildo Mandava made his first start for Atletico after injury. “It makes me very happy, the group really loves him,” he added. The coach said striker Alvaro Morata had some thigh discomfort and would be tested on Monday. Simeone left new arrival Arthur Vermeeren on the bench after his recent move from Royal Antwerp, while Juventus striker Moise Kean watched on from the presidential box ahead of his own impending move to Atletico. Athletic Bilbao, fifth, were held to a 0-0 draw at Cadiz, while Sevilla failed to secure a home win for the eighth time in a row in the league, with a 1-1 draw against Osasuna. – AFP Fuellkrug hattrick sends Dortmund into top four A hattrick from Niclas Fuellkrug powered Borussia Dortmund to a 3- 1 win over Bochum yesterday, sending the home side into the top four of the Bundesliga. Fuellkrug opened the scoring from the spot just six minutes in but Bochum equalised late in the first half thanks to an own goal from Dortmund defender Nico Schlotterbeck. Fuellkrug headed Dortmund back into the lead midway through the second period, before adding another from the spot in injury time. Dortmund, who started 2024 six points off the Champions League places, have now leapfrogged RB Leipzig into the top four. Dortmund are just one point behind thirdplaced Stuttgart. “In the first half of the season we lost our consistency a little bit, so it’s been good to chalk up some results,” Fuellkrug told DAZN. “We wanted to keep a clean sheet but unfortunately conceded a goal that we scored ourselves. “We’re just happy that we can get some self-confidence back with these results.” Fuellkrug gave Dortmund the best possible start, converting an early penalty after Bochum goalkeeper Manuel Riemann fouled Donyell Malen in the box. Unconvincing but in control, Dortmund allowed Bochum back into the game, Schlotterbeck scoring a comical own goal to level the scores. “We needed to come out after half-time and drag the game back into our control,” said Dortmund midfielder Marcel Sabitzer. “Ultimately we deserved to win, but we worked hard for it.” – AFP LAUTARO MARTINEZ fired Inter Milan back to the top of Serie A with the only goal in yesterday’s dramatic 1-0 win at Fiorentina, as depleted Napoli played out an uneventful goalless draw at Lazio. Argentina forward Martinez glanced home the decisive goal in the 14th minute of an action-packed contest in Florence in which Nicolas Gonzalez wasted a late penalty for the hosts, who had Inter on the back foot for much of the game. However it was a clash which ended with Inter one point ahead of Juventus, who were held by Empoli on Saturday, with a game in hand ahead of the two title rivals meeting at the San Siro this weekend. “I can’t say anything to these guys because we’ve won 17 matches from 21, scored 50 times and let in only 10. I can only applaud them,” said Inter coach Simone Inzaghi to DAZN. “Next (this) week will be a match between two teams who play very high quality football… Juve are a team that you really need to face in your best form.” Martinez is now on 22 goals in all competitions for the season, the Inter captain’s league tally of 19 in 21 matches putting him way ahead in the division’s scoring charts. Inter fans will have breathed a huge sigh of relief at the final whistle as the win was largely down to Fiorentina’s poor attacking, with bad decisions going forward the order of the day for Vincenzo Italiano’s side. “I’m disappointed that in matches like these we never seem to find that piece of play which can change the course of the match, or at least see that we not lose,” said Italiano to DAZN. “And we’ve got a sort of penalty curse which is starting to irritate me. It’s not good enough.” Walter Mazzarri’s Napoli stay ninth, 22 points behind Inter after not having a single shot on target in a dismal encounter at the Stadio Olimpico in Rome. “I’m very satisfied with the performance because we were facing a very strong team… we had a lot of absences and there were players who hadn’t played for ages who responded on the pitch,” insisted Mazzarri. “Today was the confirmation that I have real men with me, who play together as a team.” – AFP Brest fight back to hold PSG PARIS SAINT-GERMAIN blew a twogoal lead as in-form Brest staged an impressive comeback to hold the French champions to a 2-2 draw in Ligue 1 yesterday. Marco Asensio, making his first league start since September, volleyed PSG ahead at the Parc des Princes late in the first half before Randal Kolo Muani tapped in a second for the hosts before the break. An own goal by Danilo on 55 minutes offered Brest a way back into the match and Mathias Pereira Lage put an end to the visitors’ run of 14 successive defeats by PSG with a clever back-heel flick to equalise. PSG had Bradley Barcola, who played a key part in both of his team’s goals, sent off after he picked up two yellow cards in stoppage time. “It’s a great evening for us,” said Brest coach Eric Roy. “Being 2-0 down at the Parc des Princes can turn into a nightmare, but this team has always believed in itself. Lots of teams would have crumbled at half-time.” Luis Enrique’s side saw their lead at the top shaved to six points following Nice’s 1-0 victory over Metz on Saturday. Brest, now unbeaten in eight games, remain nine points adrift of the leaders. The two sides meet again in Paris in the last 16 of the French Cup on February 7. Brest have not beaten PSG in the last 27 meetings, a run stretching back to 1985. “The cup match is going to be very difficult,” said Luis Enrique. “If it’s anything like the second half we could be in trouble.” Klopp tipped to manage Barcelona BARCELONA have reportedly decided on who they want to replace Xavi Hernandez as their manager after the club legend revealed he will quit the Nou Camp at the end of the season. The former Barcelona and Spain midfielder took charge in November 2021 after leaving Qatari club Al Sadd and guided the club to the Spanish title in his first full season in charge in 2022- 23. However, Saturday’s 5-3 home defeat by Villarreal leaves them 10 points behind current LaLiga leaders Real Madrid. Early reports from Spain suggest that departing Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp could head to Catalonia. The German shocked the football landscape when he announced he would be walking away from the job he has had since 2015. However, Klopp also insisted that he will not be taking another job for a while and will never manage another Premier League team. That has not stopped rumours of him moving to another team outside of England though, with Serie A side Roma the latest side linked after they sacked Jose Mourinho. But it appears that a switch to Barcelona is not on the agenda, with Cadena SER naming another former Barcelona man in, Thiago Motta, as the man most likely to take the reins. The Brazilian is doing a superb job at Bologna, who are currently seventh in Serie A and just three points off a Champions League spot. Motta spent six years at Barcelona and is said to be “very much to the liking” of Joan Laporta, who sees him as a replacement for Xavi. – Agencies Martinez strikes again for Inter again for Inter Inter Milan’s Lautaro Martinez (right) in action with Fiorentina’s Fabiano Parisi. –REUTERSPIX
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 30 WEST BROM could face punishment after crowd disorder and violent scenes marred yesterday’s FA Cup tie against rivals Wolves. Play in the Black Country derby at The Hawthorns was suspended for more than half an hour after trouble flared in the stands and fans spilled onto the pitch. West Midlands Police confirmed arrests were made following the second-half disturbances and one person was taken to hospital with head injuries. There were reports of fans clashing with police and some West Brom players were concerned about family members sitting close to the trouble. At least one, Kyle Bartley, went into the crowd to get children out. Baggies manager Carlos Corberan later confirmed no players’ family members were hurt but the violent unrest, into which the Football Association swiftly launched an investigation, completely overshadowed the contest. Corberan said: “Unfortunately this happened but fortunately no dramatic situation with the families or with any person happened, because of course lives are more important than anything. “Everything was controlled by the security people and the situation didn’t have any negative consequence on the families. But, of course, the players were worried because they knew that the families were there.” The FA issued a strong statement on the trouble. It read: “The disorder that occurred at the Black Country derby between West Bromwich Albion and Wolverhampton Wanderers is completely unacceptable. “Safety and security are of the utmost importance, and the behaviour of those involved is dangerous and inexcusable. “We will be investigating these serious incidents alongside the clubs and the relevant authorities, and the appropriate action will be taken.” Emotions had been running high throughout the match, which was the first between the neighbouring clubs in front of spectators since 2012. The tensions spilled over shortly after Matheus Cunha fired Premier League Wolves into a 2-0 lead and effectively settled the fourthround tie 12 minutes from time. – The Independent █ BY ANDY HAMPSON /thesundaily FOLLOW ON FACEBOOK Malaysian Paper Devils survive Devils survive Cup scare Fernandes laments wasteful first-half display against League Two minnows BRUNO FERNANDES lamented his side’s decision-making in front of goal as Manchester United saw off a spirited Newport County to book their place in the FA Cup fifth round with a 4-2 away win. United flew out of the traps at Rodney Parade, with goals from Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo putting them 2-0 up inside the first 13 minutes. Erik ten Hag’s side could well have put the game beyond doubt in the opening salvo but spurned a number of good chances through a combination of poor finishing and bad decisionmaking. Antony squandered several efforts, while Alejandro Garnacho hit the crossbar from a tight angle despite having both Fernandes and Rasmus Hojlund open for what would have been a simple tap-in. And United’s profligate ways almost cost them when goals from Bryn Morris and Will Evans drew the League Two side level after the break. United eventually saw off the spirited hosts thanks to goals from Antony and Hojlund but the Portuguese captain said his team needed to develop a more ruthless streak in front of goal. “Obviously it was not the result that we wanted, we got the win that we wanted but the result was not the perfect one for us,” he said talking to BBC One after the game. “We didn’t want to concede goals, the first one was great from them, an unbelievable shot. “We had chances to make the 3-0 but when you get 2-0 in these types of games everyone wants to score and get their goal and everything and sometimes we don’t get the best decision for the team.” A disappointing start to the season has left the FA Cup as United’s only hope of silverware for the season. The Red Devils reached the final of last year’s competition and Fernandes hopes the team can go one step further this campaign to rectify their bad season to date. “We have to understand that the FA Cup is our chance to win a trophy and we have to give everything to get into the final step by step, game by game,” he added. “We know that to make the season look not as bad as it has been, we have to try to win this trophy because it is important for us. We were in the final last year, but unfortunately, we did not get the trophy. “We know how much the FA Cup means for our fans, our club, for the country so we know how important it is and it’s important for us too. We want to get into the final and win.” United face a trip to the winner of Bristol City versus Nottingham Forest for a place in the quarterfinals. – The Independent West Brom could face sanctions after crowd trouble against Wolves THE shock news that Jurgen Klopp will step down as Liverpool manager at the end of the season leaves the Anfield club seeking a successor for the German. Here are some of the names who could be in the frame to replace Klopp: Xabi Alonso The favourite for the role is Xabi Alonso, the former Liverpool midfielder who has done fine work with Bayer Leverkusen in Germany. The 42- year-old is regarded as one of Europe’s most promising managers having impressed previously at Real Sociedad and taken Leverkusen to the top of the Bundesliga. He spent five years at Anfield during his playing career. Roberto De Zerbi If Liverpool favour a manager familiar with the Premier League, Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi might fit the bill. The Italian’s progressive coaching style has proved a neat fit on the South Coast, taking the club into Europe for the first time during his first campaign in charge. The former Sassuolo and Shakhtar Donetsk manager has been praised by Klopp, and the two managers share a mutual respect for one another. Steven Gerrard There was a time where a return at Anfield seemed a certainty for ex-club captain Steven Gerrard, who guided Rangers to a Scottish league title after departing a role in Liverpool’s academy. A difficult spell at Aston Villa has caused his managerial stock to fall, while the Saudi Pro League is not perhaps the place to rebuild a reputation, but Gerrard remains popular with the fanbase and impressed Klopp while in charge of Liverpool’s Under-18s. Julian Nagelsmann Now in charge of Germany, a jump to the Premier League has long been rumoured for managerial wunderkind Julian Nagelsmann. Things turned a little sour towards the end of his stint at Bayern Munich but Nagelsmann was once European football’s hottest coaching commodity after success with Hoffenheim and RB Leipzig. Ange Postecoglou Surely not? It seems unlikely that Ange Postecoglou will leave Tottenham after his early success in London but the Australian was a Liverpool fan growing up, and has made a success of virtually every role in a long and varied career. Ruben Amorim Another young coach making waves on the continent, Sporting CP’s Ruben Amorim is regarded as a sharp tactical thinker. His positive mindset has also drawn praise during his time in Lisbon, and a step up to a higher-profile job in the future feels a formality for the 38-year-old, who has time on his side. Other candidates… Brentford’s Thomas Frank may be enduring some challenges this season but has built the London club nicely over the past few seasons, and shares certain sensibilities with Klopp. While news that Pep Lijnders will be departing alongside Klopp would appear to rule him out, he could yet contend as a continuity candidate. – The Independent Alonso and five other possible Klopp replacements █ BY BEN FLEMING █ BY HARRY LATHAM-COYLE SIDENETTING Rashford absence internal matter: Teg Hag ERIK TEN HAG insisted he will deal with Marcus Rashford’s absence after the Manchester United star missed Sunday’s 4-2 victory at Newport in the FA Cup. Ten Hag claimed Rashford was absent from the fourth round clash in south Wales after saying he was ill on Friday. But reports over the weekend suggested the England forward had spent Thursday evening at a Belfast nightclub before missing training with United the next day. “He reported ill,” United boss Ten Hag said after United blew a two-goal lead before surviving their trip to fourth tier Newport. “The rest is an internal matter. I deal with it, we will deal with it.” Asked one more time to elaborate on the situation, Ten Hag appeared to grow frustrated, saying: “Listen, it’s an internal matter. Internal matter.” City handed Luton tie FA CUP holders Manchester City will travel to Luton in the FA Cup fifth round, while nonleague giant-killers Maidstone face Sheffield Wednesday or Coventry. Treble winners City won 1-0 at Tottenham in the fourth round thanks to Nathan Ake’s late goal on Friday. Pep Guardiola’s side now head to Kenilworth Road to take on a Luton team that won 2-1 at Everton on Saturday. Maidstone pulled off one of the great upsets in FA Cup history by winning 2-1 at Championship high-fliers Ipswich on Saturday. The sixth-tier National League South club are the lowest ranked side left in the competition. They will now travel to another Championship side to face the winners of the replay between Wednesday and Coventry in the last 16. Fifth round draw: Blackburn or Wrexham vs Newcastle, Chelsea or Aston Villa vs Leeds or Plymouth, Bournemouth vs Leicester, Liverpool vs Watford or Southampton, Bristol City or Nottingham Forest vs Man United, Wolves vs Brighton, Sheffield Wednesday or Coventry vs Maidstone United, Luton vs Man City. Egypt coach facing the sack EGYPT coach Rui Vitoria faces an uncertain future after their embarrassing last 16 exit at the Africa Cup of Nations yesterday, with critics pointing the finger at him following a series of lacklustre displays. The record seven-time African champions lost 8-7 on penalties to the Democratic Republic of Congo following a 1-1 draw after extra-time in San Pedro. DR Congo had the majority of chances and could have settled the game in extra time when Egypt went down to 10 men after Mohamed Hamdy was sent off for a second bookable offence. Portuguese coach Vitoria attributed the defeat to bad luck, saying there are “happy and sad moments” in football. “Sometimes you do your best, but the result does not come as you expect it,“ he told reporters. Toothless in attack and shaky at the back, Egypt bowed out of the tournament without a single win, having sneaked into the knockout stage with three 2-2 draws in their group. Manchester United’s Rasmus Hojlund (centre) scores their fourth goal past Newport County’s Nick Townsend. – REUTERSPIX
SPORTS SPORTS TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 31 From small fry to dark horses Coach Segrt makes Tajikistan dream at Asian Cup TAJIKISTAN coach Petar Segrt is warm and affable with a booming voice but after gaining popularity for his charm at the Asian Cup, he is now turning heads after his side’s dream run to the quarterfinals. The only team making their debut at the tournament in Qatar, Tajikistan were the competition’s minnows and were barely given a second look when the 24-team group stage got underway. But they shocked the continent by first reaching the knockout stage before delivering the upset of the tournament by eliminating the United Arab Emirates on penalties in the last 16 yesterday. “We are now the dark horses in this tournament. Nobody knows how far we can go. I have no limits for my players, they’ve surprised me again,” the 57-year-old Segrt told reporters. A well-travelled coach who has taken charge of teams such as Georgia, Afghanistan and Maldives, the Croatian has become a national hero in Tajikistan in the past week. His demeanour and showmanship came across as a ploy to shift the limelight away from his young squad, and the tactic has clearly worked. “It’s like when you have children, you must wait for the right moment,” Segrt had said when he was asked whether his personality protected his team during the group stage. “Now they are ready… I will still try to put all the pressure on me, but they must work like adults and do it themselves.” Conceding only one goal against Qatar, a comeback win over Lebanon and nearly beating UAE in 90 minutes before dumping them out in the shootout is proof that his team is perhaps better than their ranking of 106 would suggest. “We are among the eight best teams in Asia,” said Segrt, whose side will next face either Iraq or Jordan. The Croatia’s style of management has clearly struck a chord with his young players, who engulfed him and broke his glasses when they qualified for the last-16. “He’s very positive every time, very kind. But he knows when he has to be friendly and kind, and when he has to be hard and strict towards us,” Tajikistan defender Zoir Dzhuraboev said. Segrt’s contract runs out after the Asian Cup but there is no question where his loyalty lies. “We’ll see in the next few days but I must say that Tajikistan is my first country,” he said. – Reuters AUSTRALIA beat Indonesia 4-0 in the first game of the Asian Cup knockout stage on Sunday to advance to the quarterfinals after a feisty match at the Jassim bin Hamad Stadium. Indonesia had not beaten Australia in 43 years and, despite the south-east Asian side’s loud supporters vastly outnumbering the Australian fans in the tiny arena, it was Graham Arnold’s side who prevailed after capitalising on their chances. “Credit to Indonesia, I think they made it tough. Physically, they were very big and strong. It was a tough game. The quality that we’ve got up front came through today,” Arnold told reporters. “Asian Football is coming along with leaps and bounds. We expected that, that’s exactly what we said to the boys, ‘Be ready for a fight. Be ready for a physical battle.’ Because that’s what Indonesia is going to bring. “The improvement I saw today was the individual belief… In a lot of ways (they played with) more freedom and were relaxed, that’s what I want. It’s good to have a great system of play and it’s good to have great attacking patterns.” Indonesia started the game on the front foot and gave their opponents an early scare with an effort on goal but Australia took the lead in the 12th minute when Jackson Irvine’s cross was deflected into the net by defender Elkan Baggott. Australia weathered the storm as Indonesia attempted to find a way through their staunch defence, before Boyle gave them a two-goal cushion on the stroke of halftime when he connected with Gethin Jones’s cross to head in at the far post. Craig Goodwin came on as a late substitute and the forward made an instant impact when he pounced on a rebound to score in the 89th minute while towering defender Harry Souttar made it 4-0 moments later with a glancing header from a set piece. Indonesia coach Shin Tae-yong said he was proud of his young side regardless of the four goals they conceded. “We lost because there’s a level of difference, experience and concentration. Someday we’re going to play at a similar level against Australia.” – Reuters Australia brush aside Indonesia ENGLISH FA CUP (4TH ROUND): Liverpool 5 Norwich 2, Newport 2 Manchester United 4, Watford 1 Southampton 1, West Brom 0 Wolves 2. LA LIGA: Celta Vigo 0 Girona 1 (Portu 20), Cadiz 0 Athletic Bilbao 0, Sevilla 1 (Romero 24) Osasuna 1 (Budimir 55), Atletico Madrid 2 (Lino 45+5, Depay 57) Valencia 0. TOP 6 P W D L F A Pts Girona 22 17 4 1 52 25 55 Real Madrid 21 17 3 1 45 14 54 Atletico 21 14 2 5 42 23 44 Barcelona 21 13 5 3 43 29 44 A. Bilbao 22 12 6 4 38 21 42 Real Sociedad 22 9 9 4 32 21 36 SERIE A: Fiorentina 0 Inter Milan 1 (Martinez 14), Genoa 2 (Retegui 70, Ekuban 76) Lecce 1 (Krstovic 31), Lazio 0 Napoli 0, Monza 1 (Colpani 31) Sassuolo 0, Verona 1 (Suslov 45+2-pen) Frosinone 1 (Kaio Jorge 58). TOP 6 P W D L F A Pts Inter Milan 21 17 3 1 50 10 54 Juventus 22 16 5 1 36 13 53 AC Milan 22 14 4 4 43 25 46 Atalanta 21 11 3 7 37 21 36 Fiorentina 21 10 4 7 29 22 34 Lazio 21 10 4 7 24 20 34 BUNDESLIGA: Union Berlin 1 Darmstadt 0, Borussia Dortmund 3 Bochum 1. TOP 6 P W D L F A Pts B. Leverkusen 19 15 4 0 50 14 49 Bayern 19 15 2 2 56 18 47 Stuttgart 19 12 1 6 43 25 37 B. Dortmund 19 10 7 3 40 26 36 RB Leipzig 19 10 3 6 42 26 33 E. Frankfurt 19 8 7 4 30 22 31 FRENCH LIGUE 1: Montpellier 0 Lille 0, Lorient 3 Le Havre 3, Reims 0 Nantes 0, Clermont 1 Strasbourg 1, Toulouse 0 Lens 2, Paris SaintGermain 2 Brest 2. TOP 6 P W D L F A Pts Paris SG 19 13 5 1 46 16 44 Nice 19 11 5 3 20 11 38 Brest 19 10 5 4 29 17 35 Monaco 19 10 4 5 36 27 34 Lille 19 8 8 3 24 14 32 Reims 19 9 3 7 25 24 30 AFRICA CUP OF NATIONS (LAST 16): Equatorial Guinea 0 Guinea 1, Egypt 1 Democratic Republic of Congo 1 (Congo win 8-7 on pen). ASIAN CUP (LAST 16): Australia 4 Indonesia 0, Tajikistan 1 UAE 1 (Tajikistan win 5-3 on pen). RESULTS & STANDINGS SIDENETTING Mohamad Akhimullah brace secures win over US CAPTAIN Mohamad Akhimullah Anuar Esook emerged as the hero of the national squad by scoring a brace in their 3-2 win over the United States (US) in the Men’s Hockey5s World Cup 2024 in Muscat, Oman yesterday. The victory gave Malaysia three points to lie second in Group D with four points, the same as hosts Oman, who top the group on better goal difference. The US (three points) and Fiji (zero points) are third and fourth respectively in the group. In yesterday’s match at the Hockey Oman Venue, Malaysia, guided by Wallace Tan, dominated play and took the lead in the 11th minute through a field goal by Mohamad Akhimullah. The US equalised through a field goal by Harris Pat in the 17th minute but Malaysia shot into the lead again when Syarman Mat Tee slammed in a field goal five minutes later. Malaysia kept up the pressure with constant attacks and were rewarded in the 25th minute when Mohamad Akhimullah found the net again through a field goal. Pat reduced the deficit for the US two minutes later to make the score 3- 2. Malaysia, who drew 3-3 with Oman in their opening group match, will play Fiji in their final group match overnight. Superfan Gan has secret plan FRESH from his return after watching his favourite team Harimau Malaya fight to a nail-biting 3-3 draw with South Korea, superfan Derrick Gan seems to have lined up a suprise for fellow football fans. The surprise has something to do with the new motorcycle by Modenas upon his arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport yesterday, which was arranged by local private radio station ERA, he told Bernama when contacted today. “I am very touched and did not expect the surprise (the new motorcycle) and that they would send it to KLIA,” he said Derrick, however, was tight-lipped about what exactly the surprise is and his future plans for his new motorcycle, merely informing Bernama that he would “make an announcement regarding it soon”. For now, his focus is on whether or not he would fly to Oman to cheer his favourite team on from the stands during their third 2026 World Cup/2027 Asian Cup Group D qualifying match on March 21. “I’m given to understand that travelling to Oman is expensive but I’ll definitely go to watch our team playing against them in the reverse fixture at Bukit Jalil National Stadium on March 26,” he added. Australia’s Jackson Irvine and Harry Souttar (top) in action with Indonesia’s Rafael Struick (front). – REUTERSPIX
theSun is published and printed by Sun Media Corporation Sdn Bhd (221220-K) of Lot 6, Jalan 51/217, 46050 Petaling Jaya, Selangor. Tel: 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7783 7435 • Tel (Editorial): 03-7784 6688 Fax: 03-7785 2624/5 Email: [email protected] • Tel (Advertising): 03-7784 8888 Fax: 03-7784 4424 Email: [email protected] LIVERPOOL manager Jurgen Klopp insists he had to “pull himself together” for the FA Cup victory over Norwich after an outpouring of emotion from friends and fans after he announced he would leave the club at the end of the season. His players followed through on his insistence that nothing should change with a 5-2 win over Norwich to set up a fifth-round tie at home to either Watford or Southampton. It came amid a celebration of Klopp at Anfield, who sat in contemplative mood as the Kop belted out “You’ll Never Walk Alone” before kickoff and followed it up with a first-minute rendition of “I’m so glad that Jurgen is a Red”. “It’s emotional but I have to pull myself together. I received all the messages. I’m not made of wood,” said Klopp. “It was a top performance from everybody involved, really good. We could have passed a little but with more purpose, direction and being quicker in the way we scored two goals but conceded a set-piece goal. “But it is clear when you are as dominant as we are, if we improve in some departments we create more chances.” Curtis Jones and Darwin Nunez scored either side of Ben Gibson’s headed equaliser but in the second half it was virtual oneway traffic and further goals came from Diogo Jota, Virgil van Dijk and Ryan Gravenberch, with Borja Sainz’s screamer briefly making it 4-2. However, other major plus points were the returns from injury off the bench from Andy Robertson – out since October with a dislocated shoulder – fellow full-back Trent Alexander-Arnold and midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai. With Premier League matches against Chelsea and Arsenal coming up, having them all back is a real boost. “It was very important that we could give them minutes. Trent and Dom were not that long out but Robbo was out for a long time and each minute they could get is really important and here it helped to share intensity,” added Klopp. “We played pretty good without them, so it is about how we are playing. We have to make sure we are the one team Chelsea does not want to play against and Arsenal doesn’t want to play against.” Klopp hailed goalscorer Jones’ transformation into a player who can now defend and press at a high level, but the outgoing head coach clearly did not think that Jones had those tools in his arsenal until recently. When asked about Jones’ performance as he shone once again in a midfield three, Klopp told ITV: “Yeah (Jones is confident), he is in a great moment for us right now, he’s super important and in different departments he’s important. “So he is a very good player but he is kind of a role model as well for all of our academy guys.” Then with a big smile on his face, Klopp joked: “And if Curtis (Jones) can learn defending, everybody can learn defending. “What I mean is offensive defend, a high press, it’s intensity, but he is setting the rhythm for us and if he can do it everybody can do it. “James McConnell was put in the six because we had injuries in preseason. Conor Bradley has everything at right-back. You can talk to him about tactics, he gets it. “Our big guns are back now and we play again in three days. Chelsea and Arsenal, it doesn’t get much bigger.” Norwich boss David Wagner, Klopp’s long-time friend, admitted his side were up against it. “A deserved win for Liverpool, the better side won. My team put a shift in and tried to play out from the back. We scored two wonderful goals and were competitive,” he said. “I said before, ‘let’s attack this competition with freedom’. We were able to get some players closer to the squad and it was a step for us. Now we have to make sure we recover in the Championship.” – The Independent/Express Newspapers SCAN ME TUESDAY | JAN 30, 2024 or download app from the App Store or Google PlayTM . www.thesun.my Free access to iPaper PDF Download SCAN ME Malaysian Paper Read iPaper at Malaysian Paper Malaysian Paper Start of a new era -Story - on page 29 Story on page 28 Girona back on top ‘I’m not made of wood’ Klopp admits emotions were clear during FA Cup win over Norwich -Story on page 30 Devils survive cup scare Liverpool’s Dominik Szoboszlai (left) in action with Norwich City’s Sam McCallum during their FA Cup match. – REUTERSPIX